The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) is back with its 11th season, and excitement is building as fans eagerly await the start of the competition. PKL has become a major sporting event, and the captaincy plays a crucial role in leading teams to victory. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed overview of the captains for all teams in PKL 2024, including the most expensive captain in the league. Let’s dive into the captain list and analyze the top leaders in this thrilling sport.
Top Captains of PKL Season 11
Pro Kabaddi League has seen remarkable performances from captains over the years, and this season is no different. Below is a list of the top captains for the 2024 season, highlighting their leadership qualities and contributions to their respective teams.
1. Pawan Kumar Sehrawat (Most Expensive Captain)
Pawan Kumar Sehrawat, known for his aggressive playing style, leads the list as the most expensive captain of PKL Season 11. He has been retained by his team for a whopping amount, making him the highest-paid captain this season. Pawan’s previous performances have been exceptional, particularly with his quick raids and ability to score crucial points under pressure. Despite his team’s mixed performance last season, Pawan remains a key figure, expected to deliver exceptional leadership and individual brilliance.
2. Arjun Deshwal – Jaipur Pink Panthers
Arjun Deshwal has established himself as one of the most consistent raiders in PKL. His retention by the Jaipur Pink Panthers for the full season solidifies his importance to the team. Arjun’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations makes him an ideal leader. He is expected to carry the Pink Panthers through another successful campaign, as he aims to replicate his previous performances, where he consistently scored over 200 points per season.
3. Naveen Kumar & Ashu Malik – Dabang Delhi
Dabang Delhi has opted for dual leadership this season, with Naveen Kumar and Ashu Malik sharing captaincy duties. Naveen, a star raider known for his lightning-fast raids, has been a standout performer for Delhi in the past. However, due to an injury, Ashu Malik has stepped up as a co-captain. Both players bring unique strengths to the team, combining youthful energy and experience, making Dabang Delhi a strong contender this season.
4. Sunil Kumar – Jaipur Pink Panthers
Sunil Kumar, one of the most experienced defenders in PKL history, returns as the captain for the Jaipur Pink Panthers. With over 336 tackle points in his career, Sunil is a leader who can guide his team with his strategic insights and defensive prowess. His vast experience as a captain will be vital in steering the team toward another playoff run this season.
5. Pardeep Narwal – Bengaluru Bulls
Pardeep Narwal, also known as the “Dubki King,” is the all-time top scorer in PKL history. His return to the Bengaluru Bulls as captain is highly anticipated. Pardeep has consistently been one of the most valuable players in the league, and his leadership is expected to inspire the Bulls to chase the PKL title. With his ability to execute brilliant raids and score points, Pardeep remains a fan favorite.
6. Shubham Shinde – Patna Pirates
Shubham Shinde has been announced as the new captain for the Patna Pirates, replacing previous leaders. Known for his solid defense and sharp tactical mind, Shubham will be looking to lead the Pirates to another successful season. His 58 tackle points in the previous season showcase his ability to shine under pressure, making him a player to watch.
Other Notable Captains
Apart from the top six captains mentioned above, several other notable leaders are stepping up for PKL Season 11.
Sagar Rathee – Tamil Thalaivas
Sagar Rathee, a star defender for Tamil Thalaivas, has been retained as the captain. His incredible tackle points in previous seasons have made him an integral part of the team’s defense. Sagar’s leadership skills and consistency are expected to drive Tamil Thalaivas into a strong position this year.
Fazel Atrachali – Bengal Warriors
Fazel Atrachali, a name that needs no introduction in the Kabaddi world, returns as the captain of the Bengal Warriors. With a staggering 486 tackle points and seven consecutive PKL finals under his belt, Fazel’s leadership and experience make him one of the most respected players in the league. He will look to continue his legacy as a fierce defender and a tactical mastermind.
Aslam Inamdar – Puneri Paltan
Aslam Inamdar continues as the captain of Puneri Paltan. A versatile all-rounder, Aslam has contributed significantly to both offense and defense, making him a well-rounded leader. His career totals of 449 raid points and 58 tackle points reflect his value to the team. Under his leadership, Puneri Paltan is expected to make a strong bid for the title.
Jaideep Dahiya – Haryana Steelers
Jaideep Dahiya, who led the Haryana Steelers to the finals last season, returns as captain. Jaideep’s leadership skills and strong defensive abilities (with over 100 tackle points) are key to the Steelers’ performance. He is one of the best left-cover defenders in the league and will be instrumental in Haryana’s success.
Neeraj Kumar – Gujarat Giants
Neeraj Kumar, a right-cover defender, takes over the captaincy of Gujarat Giants. Neeraj has had a stellar career with over 122 tackles to his name. Although his previous record as a captain might not be top-tier, his new role in Gujarat gives him the opportunity to make a bigger impact this season.
Surender Gill – UP Yoddhas
Surender Gill is another rising star, leading UP Yoddhas as their new captain. Known for his intelligence and quick decision-making, Surender has been a standout raider in past seasons. His ability to lead from the front makes him an exciting captain for the Yoddhas as they aim to improve on their previous performance.
Conclusion
PKL Season 11 promises to be another thrilling edition with some of the best kabaddi players showcasing their leadership skills. From Pawan Kumar Sehrawat, the most expensive captain, to veterans like Fazel Atrachali and young talents like Surender Gill, the captains play an integral role in shaping the outcomes of their teams. Fans are in for a treat as these skilled leaders take their teams to new heights in the quest for the coveted PKL trophy.
