PKL 11: Why didn’t Mohammadreza Shadloui win best defender award?

Mohammadreza Shadloui top the list of most tackle points in PKL 11.

After two and a half months of intense action, the Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) is over. Haryana Steelers claimed their maiden title after beating Patna Pirates 32-23 in season 11 final. PKL 11 delivered edge-of-the-seat action, thrilling fans with unforgettable moments and exceptional individual performances. As the season wrapped up, the league recognized its brightest stars who defined this year’s competition.

The season went very well, but in the end, the fans got a big shock. Nitesh Kumar was named the best defender of PKL 11 in place of Mohammadreza Shadloui. Especially since Mohammadreza Shadloui had a stellar season too finishing at the top of the list of tackle points. But when you dig into the numbers and the context, it’s clear why Nitesh earned this recognition.

Across 22 matches in PKL 11, Nitesh racked up 77 tackle points, averaging 3.36 successful tackles per game. He pulled off 8 High 5s—one of the highest in the league—and delivered 3 Super Tackles when his team needed him most.

His tackle success rate of 57% speaks to his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. However, if you consider the 22 matches, Shadloui was in the second position with only 76 tackle points to his name.

What makes Nitesh’s achievement even more remarkable is the situation he was in. Tamil Thalaivas had a rough season in PKL 11, often struggling to compete with stronger teams. Despite this, Nitesh was a rock in their defence, contributing nearly 30% of the team’s total tackle points. He didn’t just play well—he carried the defensive unit on his shoulders.

For Nitesh, it was a different story. He had to step up every game for a struggling team, often against overwhelming odds. His ability to consistently deliver in tough situations truly sets him apart. Tamil Thalaivas finished ninth in the PKL 11.

While Mohammadreza Shadloui walked away with the Most Valuable Player award for PKL 11, Nitesh’s recognition as Defender of the Season feels just right. It’s not just about the numbers it’s about the context, the challenges, and the sheer impact he had on his team.

Since Shadloui won the MVP award, that’s why he wasn’t given another award. In his place, Nitesh Kumar, who scored the most tackle points till the league stage of PKL 11, received this award.

Shadloui was nothing short of phenomenal for the Haryana Steelers in PKL 11. He topped the charts with 82 tackle points in 24 matches and led his team to their maiden PKL title. However, Shadloui had the advantage of playing in a more balanced team. The Steelers’ strong all-around setup gave him the freedom to shine both as a defender and an all-rounder.

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