PKL: Kabaddi Icon Rakesh Kumar Appointed Head Coach of U Mumba

Synopsis

Kabaddi legend Rakesh Kumar has returned to U Mumba as head coach after nine years, aiming to lead the team back to its former glory in the Pro Kabaddi League. His experience and leadership promise to enhance the team's performance and uphold its legacy.

Key Takeaways

Rakesh Kumar is the new head coach of U Mumba.
He returns after a nine-year absence from the team.
Rakesh aims to build a strong squad for the upcoming season.
The #Se7enIsBack campaign celebrates his return.
U Mumba focuses on strategic growth and excellence.

Mumbai, Feb 24 (NationPress) Kabaddi icon Rakesh Kumar makes a comeback to U Mumba after a nine-year hiatus, as the three-time Asian gold medalist and former Indian captain assumes the role of head coach in the Pro Kabaddi League.

Regarded as one of the most esteemed figures in the kabaddi community, Rakesh has consistently showcased discipline and tactical prowess, delivering top performances every time he stepped onto the mat. Under Rakesh's leadership, U Mumba is focused on assembling a roster capable of competing at the pinnacle of the sport while upholding the franchise's legacy of tenacity and excellence in the Pro Kabaddi League.

U Mumba is gearing up for the announcement with the #Se7enIsBack initiative, which celebrates his dedication and long-standing success, while also emphasizing a vision that values robust leadership, strategic development, and a winning mindset.

As the highest-paid player during PKL Season 1, Rakesh joined U Mumba in its third season. His remarkable leadership skills, refined through years of elite competition, have transitioned from commanding the game to strategizing from the sidelines, a testament to his previous coaching experience with Haryana in the PKL and the Indian Railways team.

On his return, Rakesh expressed, "I am thrilled to return to U Mumba after such an extended period. I once donned the Mumba colors as a player, and now I bear the responsibility of coaching the team. I aspire to strengthen the squad and restore the team to the rhythm it enjoyed in the initial three seasons. We will put in the hard work necessary to achieve this. I am thankful to be back.”

With Rakesh leading the charge, U Mumba is reaffirming its commitment to excellence by enhancing defensive strength and creating a balanced raiding unit. This move evokes a sense of nostalgia while igniting anticipation, as fans rally behind a familiar and trusted leader, hopeful that his tactical insights will steer U Mumba back to the summit of the Pro Kabaddi League.

Welcoming Rakesh back, CEO Suhail Chandhok stated, "Arguably India's greatest kabaddi player, a three-time Asian Games gold medalist, an Arjuna Awardee, and most importantly, a former player for U Mumba who rejoins our family. It is my great pleasure to welcome Rakesh back, this time in the capacity of head coach. A thrilling phase lies ahead for both him and us. His respect among the players is unmatched, and I know he has grand ambitions as a coach; we share the same determination to advance the team into this new chapter.”