PKL 12: Three teams who can buy Naveen Kumar in auction

Naveen Kumar was released by semifinalist Dabang Delhi ahead of PKL 12 auctions.

Naveen Kumar, popularly known as Naveen Express, will be a part of the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 Auction after representing Dabang Delhi for six consecutive years. Naveen was the MVP of the Delhi team and has been carrying their raiding department single-handedly. He played a pivotal role in helping Delhi to win their maiden title in season 8.

Since his debut, Naveen Kumar has broken several records in the PKL history. He became the fastest raider to score 1000 points and holds the record of the most consecutive Super 10 (28). He performed brilliantly in Season 7, scoring a Super 10 in 22 out of 23 matches, which helped him win the MVP (Most Valuable Player) award. He kept up his great form in Season 8 and won the MVP award again.

Also Read: PKL 12: Top five big players who might go unsold in auction

However, last few seasons haven’t been kind to him. Constant injuries kept him off the mat, and upon returning, he struggled to regain his rhythm and form. As a result, Dabang Delhi decided to release him, making him one of the biggest names in the Season 12 auction table

Let’s look at the teams that can target Naveen Kumar at the PKL 12 auction.

3. Patna Pirates

The four-time champions, Patna Pirates, are in need of a strong raider after releasing their top performer and Season 11’s best raider, Devank Dalal. Although Ayan Lohchab has been retained, Patna will be looking for a second raider to boost their raiding department

Naveen Kumar could be an ideal pick. If he regains full fitness and plays over 13 matches, he has the ability to turn games single-handedly. Given the fact that Patna also have M Sudhakar, Naveen’s presence will not only boost the reading department but will also add depth to Patna’s squad.

2. Jaipur Pink Panthers

The inaugural season champion, Jaipur, is also one of the teams that can target Naveen Kumar. To everyone’s surprise, Jaipur have released their star raider, Arjun Deshwal. Jaipur will be looking to invest in raiders, as last year Arjun Deshwal single-handedly handled the raiding department, with little or no support from other raiders.

Also Read: PKL 12: What could be Bengaluru Bulls’ auction strategy?

1. Dabang Delhi

The season 8 champion Dabang Delhi have released all their star players ahead of the season 12 auction and will be looking to rebuild their squad in the auction. Despite releasing him, Dabang Delhi still have the option to bring Naveen Kumar back using the Final Bid Match (FBM) card. Given Naveen’s immense contribution to the franchise, especially being their best raider and MVP, Delhi might look to bring him back in the auction.

Despite recent injury concerns, Naveen Kumar remains one of the most talented raiders in PKL history. If he can regain form and fitness, he could be one of the biggest steals of the auction. During the auction, all eyes will be on Naveen to see if it’s the homecoming for him or a new beginning, but one thing is sure that many teams will go out for him in the auction.

For more updates, follow Khel Now Kabaddi on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.