Targeting over 200 points this season says Pardeep Narwal ahead PKL 11: Exclusive

Pardeep Narwal will have a lot to prove as he returns to Bengaluru Bulls.

Pardeep Narwal-led Bengaluru Bulls are determined to make a comeback in PKL 11, aiming to reclaim their former glory after falling short in the last few seasons. Although they made the playoffs in three of the past four campaigns, their Season 10 performance left them just outside the playoff race. The Bulls, who won the PKL title in Season 6 and finished as runners-up in Season 2, are ready for another strong campaign.

Guided by the longest-serving coach in PKL history, Randhir Singh Sehrawat, who has been with the franchise since its inception, the Bulls have an impressive legacy. Sehrawat’s leadership will once again be key as they head into PKL 11 with a refreshed squad built during an active player auction.

The spotlight this season is on Pardeep Narwal, one of the most iconic names in Pro Kabaddi League history. Ahead of the PKL 11, Pardeep Narwal took some time amid his preparations, to have an exclusive conversation with Khel Now where he discussed his goals and team’s aims and targets.

Here are some of the excerpts from the interview.

On returning to Bengaluru Bulls

Known as the “Dubki King,” Pardeep Narwal holds the record for the most raid points in PKL history, with 1690 points in 170 matches. His journey in PKL started under the guidance of Randhir Singh Sehrawat, and after being released by the UP Yoddhas, he was picked up by the Bengaluru Bulls for ₹70 lakhs ahead of PKL 11.

“It feels great to be back where I started my kabaddi journey, and to come back here after so many years where everything is the same even 11 years later, ” said Pardeep Narwal.

On gaining his form back

Although Pardeep Narwal’s recent performances have been below his usual standards, Bengaluru Bulls are banking on him to make a major comeback this season. With Sehrawat backing his star raider, Pardeep’s return to the Bulls could be the key to their success. Even the raider is raring to go as the Bengaluru Bulls kick off their campaign on October 18 against Telugu Titans.

Speaking on whether he will be back in top form and breaking records, Narwal stated, “Yes, of course. I have worked so hard day and night to get my form back and perform for my team. I have worked hard on my fitness which is very important.”

“Well, it feels like an excuse to say I could not perform for this reason or that reason, all I can say is that I didn’t perform to my best and I will try and change that this time. I have a target of scoring over 200 points and help my team,” Narwal added.

On thoughts about retirement

Coach Randhir Singh had once revealed that Pardeep Narwal was almost close to considering retirement, however, the coach asked him to return to Bengaluru Bulls and give his career another shot.

“I thought of ending my career but upon hearing the advice of the coach Randhir Singh, I decided to see whether I still got it, so for now I am not thinking about retirement,” said Pardeep Narwal.

On coach Randhir Singh’s impact

Randhir Singh Sehrawat is once again set to lead Bengaluru Bulls as their head coach for Season 11. He has been an integral part of the franchise since the league’s inception, guiding the team to their maiden PKL title in Season 6. With the longest coaching tenure in the league, Sehrawat knows how to handle the team and get the best out of them. Echoing the same Pardeep Narwal said,

“Coaches have a huge impact, when a player doesn’t play well they have to take him out but the way Randhir “Sir handles it is very different. He has been coaching this time for 11 years so he knows how to handle it, he knows how to change a player without him feeling bad.”

On the team and targets

Coach Randhir Singh has a stellar squad at his disposal. The very experienced Pradeep Narwal backed by the likes of Ajinkya Pawar and Jai Bhagwan alongside seasoned defenders and all-rounders, will make them a contender for the PKL 11 title this time.

Speaking on the same Narwal said, ” We have a very good squad, Ajinkya and then we have Jai Bhagwan and also the juniors. We have a very good raider contingent and the coach has done a great job in making the team.”

“Our target is to take on the matches one by one and win them to make our way into the final and finally get the trophy,” he added.

A message to fans

Pardeep Narwal ended the conversation with a heartfelt message for his fans whom he requested to support him as they did for so many years.

” Please support us from your home like you have always and keep your faith in me and the team,” Pardeep Narwal concluded.

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