PKL 12: What could be Haryana Steelers' auction strategy?

Haryana Steelers are the defending champions of PKL.

Haryana Steelers had a stellar season last year, they dominated every team to win the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 trophy. They were very close to reaching the summit in season 10, as they missed the title, losing in the final. Everybody doubted their strategy in the auction last year as they broke the bank to sign Mohammadreza Shadloui.

Not only did it strengthen their already strong defensive line-up, but it also provided an X-factor with his raiding prowess as the Iranian was their third-best Raider.

Also Read: PKL 12: List of players released, retained by Haryana Steelers ahead of auction

He continued his magical performance in PKL and helped another team reach the finals. He also won the Most Valuable Player of the season award, once again emphasising his impact on his team.

Haryana might want to get back Shadloui

The Steelers can buy back Mohammadreza Shadloui using the FBM card during the auction on May 31. The management would be willing to break the bank again to get the all-rounder back in the left corner. He, along with the famed quartet of Jaideep Dahiya, Vinay Tewatia, Rahul Sethpal, and Shivam Patare, plotted the success of Haryana last year.

Jaideep and Vinay have been with the team for four years, while Rahul and Shivam have become an integral part of the team in the last two years. Their auction strategy could be to get Shadloui back to ensure their foundation is strong.

Also Read: PKL 12: Mohammadreza Shadloui reacts after getting released by Haryana Steelers before auction

Concentration will be on the Defenders

Haryana have always relied on their defence to deal with the opposition. Surender Nada, Dharmaraj Cheralathan, and Mohit Chillar used to be their marquee players in the early days, and now the responsibility rests on the shoulders of Jaideep, Rahul, and a few other defenders.

Sanjay Dhull performed well at right cover last season, and the defending champions may try to add him again in the auction. The Steelers have retained young right cover defender Manikandan. If Coach Manpreet Singh is looking for experience, he will look for Surjeet Singh and Vaibhav Garje.

Backup Raiders ft. Ajinkya Pawar

Vinay Tewatia and Shivam Patare have been performing consistently well for the last two seasons. These two and Vishal Tate have been retained, and the trio will lead the charge. But in a long season, they will need backup raiders in case of injuries and crucial situations.

Ajinkya Pawar would be a wonderful fit for the franchise. With many star raiders available in the auction, the Do-or-Die specialist may not be in the primary list of all franchises. If the Steelers spend more on players like Shadloui, Pawar can be available to them at a lower price

Other options could be Nitin Kumar, Bharat Hooda, and Guman Singh. All three had an average last season, and hence their prices may fall this time. These players can perform well in the Haryana team.

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