PKL 11 Season Review: Haryana Steelers' journey to become champions of Pro Kabaddi 2024

The ultimate champions played like favourites as they dominated throughout the season.

Haryana Steelers wait for the PKL trophy finally got over as they beat Patna Pirates in Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) final 32-23. The Manpreet Singh-coached outfit finished at the top of the PKL 11 table with 16 wins and six losses from 22 matches earning a direct qualification to the PKL 11 semifinals.

Haryana Steelers have had the season to remember in PKL 11. After narrowly missing out on the trophy last season, they made the right additions to the squad, bringing in Mohammadreza Shadloui while keeping the core of the team intact. As a result, the teams showed synchronized, cohesive performances complementing each other.

Also Read: PKL 11 Season Review: Did Pawan Sehrawat’s injury cost Telugu Titans’ title dream?

Another thing the Haryana Steelers did right which had raised some eyebrows was when they did not go for any prolific raiders in the PKL 11 Auction. As coach Manpreet had said earlier, Haryana proved that a team does not need big names to win. They gave chances to youngsters Shivam Patare, and Vinay and they did do a great job for the team.

That being said, nevertheless, let’s take a look at how the PKL 11 unfolded for the champions.

Top Performers:

Mohammadreza Shadloui

The MVP of PKL 11, Mohammadreza Shadloui was the perfect addition to the Haryana Steelers squad which already brimmed with talent. The outfit roped in the Iranian defender for a whopping ₹2.1 crores and he repaid the faith in every penny.

In 24 matches, the Iranian star amassed 139 points, balancing attack and defense with remarkable consistency. Offensively, he secured 57 raid points with a success rate of 41.3%, averaging 2.37 raid points per match. While he didn’t record a Super 10, his two Super Raids came at crucial junctures, keeping the opposition under pressure.

Defensively, Shadloui’s season tally of 82 tackle points, including four Super Tackles and five High 5s, showcased his dominance. His ability to rise to the occasion, especially in high-stakes moments like the final, proved pivotal in securing Haryana Steelers’ maiden PKL crown.

In the PKL 11 final, Shadloui delivered a stellar performance, contributing 7 crucial points to the Steelers’ 32-23 victory over the Patna Pirates. His defensive brilliance, which included key tackles, stifled the Pirates’ raiders, allowing Haryana to dictate terms.

Rahul Sethpal

Rahul Sethpal, known as the ‘Wall’, performed excellently throughout the season on the right corner. By performing brilliantly in the final and semi-final of PKL 11, he played an important role in helping the team win their first title.

In 24 matches, he accumulated an impressive 73 tackle points with a remarkable tackle success rate of 59%, highlighting his consistency and precision in defence. Averaging 2.75 successful tackles per match, Sethpal was a vital cog in the Steelers’ formidable defence.

His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments was evident with seven Super Tackles and four High 5s during the season. Sethpal’s aggressive yet calculated approach in the right corner was instrumental in stifling opposition raiders, providing Haryana Steelers the defensive stability they needed to claim their maiden PKL title.

Also Read: PKL 11 Season Review: Did lack of experienced raiders affect U Mumba’s title hopes?

Shivam Patare

Defence might be the Haryana Steelers‘ strongest suit but Shivam Patare lived up to the Steelers’ attack. The youngster sits ninth in the list of most raid points in PKL 11. Over 24 matches, he amassed an impressive 167 points, including 158 raid points, showcasing an average of 6.58 raid points per match. His success rate of 58.08% across 272 raids highlighted his sharp instincts and ability to outwit defenders.

Throughout the season, Patare delivered under pressure, recording six Super 10s and three Super Raids, cementing his reputation as a game-changer. His brilliance shone brightest in the PKL 11 final, where his nine-point performance was crucial in securing Haryana Steelers’ maiden title. Patare’s fearless approach and match-winning raids made him a cornerstone of the Steelers’ historic triumph.

Special mention

Along with Shivam Patare, Vinay has also excelled for Haryana Steelers in PKL 11. Across 24 matches, he earned 166 points, including 164 raid points, with an impressive average of 6.83 raid points per game. His not-out rate of 77.8% reflected his reliability and skill in sustaining momentum under pressure.

Executing 374 raids with a success rate of 43.85%, Vinay demonstrated tenacity and accuracy. His six Super 10s and five Super Raids underscored his ability to rise to the occasion during pivotal moments. In the PKL 11 final, Vinay added six critical points as the Haryana Steelers went on to get their first-ever PKL title.

Top Performances:

• Haryana Steelers 32-23 Patna Pirates (PKL 11 Final)
• Jaipur Pink Panthers 30-43 Haryana Steelers (Match 72)
• Haryana Steelers 46-25 Telugu Titans (Match 101)

Coach’s Report Card – Manpreet Singh

Rightfully awarded the coach of the season Manpreet Singh himself is one of the most impactful reasons behind Haryana Steelers’ success in PKL 11. From making the right decisions in the PKL 11 auction to motivating the players when they are down.

Being a PKL champion with Patna Pirates as a player and reaching three finals, the experienced coach knows a thing or two about the pressure of the final and how to handle the same. His tactics, strategy, experience and vision have been impeccable this season.

Coach Manpreet Singh’s focus on building a strong defensive unit rather than relying on star raiders has been the backbone of the Haryana Steelers’ success. Under his leadership, the team has grown into a well-oiled machine, proving that teamwork and discipline can outshine individual brilliance.

Lessons to be learned

The only lesson that Haryana Steelers will be taking from this season is that they have been doing all the right things and would need to continue doing the same if they want to see themselves at the top spot even in the coming seasons.

Fans’ View

Haryana Steelers fans will have a season to remember. The team not only won their first-ever title but dominated the entire season with stellar performances keeping the fans ar the edge of the seats. They might have lost six matches but the fans will be satisfied after capping off such an impressive season.

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