PKL 12: Players Jaipur Pink Panthers should retain for upcoming Pro Kabaddi season

There are many stars in the team of two-time PKL champion Jaipur Pink Panthers.

The 11th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League was a disappointing campaign for the Jaipur Pink Panthers. They were considered as one of the title contenders but fell short in the eliminator against UP Yoddhas. Despite having heavy hitters like Arjun Deshwal, Reza Mirbagheri, and more, the side failed to clinch the third title.

Despite their anticlimactic exit from the competition, there were plenty of learnings for the Jaipur Pink Panthers. The performance by the raiders, led by Arjun “Raid Machine” Deshwal, was memorable, and their defence was steadfast thanks to Reza Mirbagheri’s solidity on the mat.

As the season 12 auction approaches, here’s a look at some key players that the Jaipur Pink Panthers should retain as they attempt to challenge for the trophy once again:

Arjun Deshwal is an easy choice

The Jaipur Pink Panthers have to retain Arjun Deshwal at all costs. He was their best performer in the raiding department and shouldered the responsibility of scoring points single-handedly. The star raider finished his campaign in the 11th edition of PKL with 227 raid points, ranking third in terms of raid points behind Devank and Ashu Malik.

He also hit 10 Super 10s, the third most by an individual player last season. Arjun Deshwal is a natural leader, he can win matches for the team even in impossible situations.

Also Read: PKL 12: Players Telugu Titans should retain for upcoming Pro Kabaddi season

Ankush Rathee and Reza Mirbagheri are safe bets in defence

The Jaipur Pink Panthers were a strong unit and tough to defeat last term due to the presence of individuals like Ankush Rathee and Reza Mirbagheri in defence. Both players are safe bets ahead of the season 12 auction.

Ankush Rathee was Jaipur’s highest tackle point scorer last season, scoring 68 points in 23 matches. As for the Iranian powerhouse Reza Mirbagheri, he collected 58 tackle points in 23 matches for the team. The only area where the duo can improve is being more consistent in their performances.

Neeraj Narwal could be a smart gamble

Jaipur Pink Panthers must ensure they have quality cover in the raiding department for Arjun Deshwal. While moves can be made in the auction, the outfit can make a gamble on Neeraj Narwal, who showed positive signs in PKL 11. He scored 87 points in 18 matches last term, which included 13 tackle points too. While he is chiefly a raider, Narwal’s contribution in defence can be a decent asset. 

Neeraj Narwal must deliver his best points tally if the side decides to put faith and retain him for the PKL 12. Last season, he made 61 successful raids; this number can surely be improved in the upcoming season.

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