PKL 11 Playoffs: Which six teams are in best place to qualify?

Playoffs and finals of PKL 11 will be played from December 26 to 29 in Pune.

Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) has reached its climax with only a few games left in the league stage. The competition is getting tougher, the race for playoff spots is more intense than ever. With just ten points separating the second-placed Patna Pirates and eighth-placed Puneri Paltan who are the defending champions, this season has turned out to be one of the most competitive in a long time.

On that note, let’s take a look at Khel Now’s predicted top six teams for the PKL 11 playoffs which will be played at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune.

Also Read: PKL 11: All teams eliminated from playoffs race

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6. UP Yoddhas

Maybe one of the most surprising inclusions, but despite their rocky season UP Yoddhas have pulled themselves up in time and most importantly in a manner that can put them in contention for the PKL 11 playoff spots. They currently sit at the third spot in the table with 59 points from nine wins in 17 matches.

While they had a shaky start with proven stars Bharat Hooda and Surender Gill failing to rack up points, youngsters Gagan Gowda and Bhavani Rajput stepped up at the right time. The duo scored 94 and 99 points respectively in 12 and 16 matches. However, what has turned around things more is the stout performance from the defensive duo of Hitesh and captain Sumit Sangwan.

5. Telugu Titans

Telugu Titans have shown tremendous promise in PKL 11, making a strong case for a playoff spot. After a shaky start, they bounced back impressively, securing 54 points and climbing to fifth place on the table. Their hunger for success is evident, as they’ve turned their fortunes around with a well-structured squad and a renewed spirit. Unlike previous seasons, where inconsistency plagued them, they’ve proven to be a force to reckon with this time.

A key factor in their rise has been the ability to perform without their star raider, Pawan Sehrawat, who’s missed several matches due to injury. With Vijay Malik stepping up as captain and leading the raiding charge, the team has thrived. Malik’s versatility and form have been pivotal, as he’s contributed 138 raid points, showing his ability to carry the team. With a solid balance between attack and defence, Telugu Titans are well-positioned to make it to the playoffs.

Also Read: PKL 11: Playoffs qualification scenarios of all teams explained

4. Dabang Delhi

Dabang Delhi are looking like a strong contender for a spot in the PKL 11 playoffs, thanks to their balanced squad and fighting spirit. Their raiding unit, led by Ashu Malik and Naveen Kumar, has been outstanding. Ashu has stepped up in a big way this season, scoring 12 Super 10s and 174 raid points in just 16 matches. Naveen, though not playing as many games, remains a clutch performer in key moments.

Defensively, players like Yogesh and Ashish Malik have been rock-solid, with Yogesh leading the side with 38 tackles in 14 games. What sets Delhi apart is their ability to fight back, like in their thrilling 38-38 tie against Puneri Paltan, where they turned the game around in the second half. With their mix of star power and resilience, Dabang Delhi have everything it takes to make a serious push for the playoffs.

3. U Mumba

U Mumba have the potential to make a strong push for the PKL 11 playoffs due to their well-balanced squad, combining experienced defenders and emerging raiders.

The return of the formidable cover pair, Sunil Kumar and Parvesh Bhainswal adds a solid foundation to their defence, making it one of the most reliable in the league. Along with corner defenders like Sombir, Gokulakannan M, and Rinku, U Mumba has a defence that can consistently stop the opposition’s raiders.

While their raiding unit initially raised concerns, the rise of Ajit Chouhan has been a pleasant surprise. With an average of 8.06 raid points per match and a total of 143 points in 17 matches, Chouhan has injected new energy into the offence that has bolstered their chances.

2. Patna Pirates

Patna Pirates have exceeded expectations in PKL 11, and it’s no surprise they’re now considered one of the strongest title contenders. With 52 points from nine wins, five losses, and a draw, they’re sitting pretty in second place. What sets them apart this season is their balance of a lethal raiding unit, a solid defence, and an outstanding sense of team chemistry.

At the heart of their offence are Devank and Ayan Lohchab. Devank has been a revelation, leading the league with 221 raid points, while Ayan has been the perfect support raider with 127 points of his own. Together, they’ve formed an attacking duo that’s tough to beat.

Defensively, Patna’s backline is equally impressive. Ankit Jaglan, Deepak Singh, and Shubham Shinde have been rock-solid, contributing to the team’s 159 tackle points. But beyond individual brilliance, it’s the team’s cohesion that stands out. Every player knows their role, and this collective effort has been key to their success. The Pirates have proven that chemistry, even without big names, can be just as powerful as talent when everyone is firing in sync.

1. Haryana Steelers

Haryana Steelers have been exceptional in PKL 11 and firmly deserve to be in the top six. With 67 points from 17 matches, including 13 wins, they’ve shown both dominance and consistency, especially in recent victories with comfortable margins.

The team’s star-studded defence, led by Mohammadreza Shadloui and Rahul Sethpal, has been impenetrable, ranking second in tackle points with 57. The young raiding duo of Vinay and Shivam Patare has been on fire, adding depth and balance to the team’s attack.

With coach Manpreet Singh’s invaluable experience and a squad that’s used to pressure situations, Haryana is well-equipped to secure a top-six finish and avoid the eliminators, aiming for a direct semifinal spot.

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