PKL 12: What could be Tamil Thalaivas' auction strategy

A good strategy in the PKL 12 auction can make Tamil Thalaivas a contender for the trophy this season.

The 11th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League was not an ideal campaign for the Tamil Thalaivas. In a string of mediocre performances, the outfit secured only eight wins and recorded 13 defeats, with one tie during the season, finishing in ninth place. The side struggled for consistency all season as the star players in the squad failed to deliver positive results regularly.

Tamil Thalaivas raised plenty of eyebrows after going all in for Sachin Tanwar in last season’s auction. The side made him the most expensive player of the auction, as he was bought for a whopping Rs. 2.15 crore.

In the PKL 12 auction, there are many areas where Thalaivas would like to improve and buy better players than the previous season. What are the things they would like to address? Here is their possible auction strategy:

Tamil Thalaivas needs to invest in a star raider

Tamil’s philosophy last season was that attack is the best way to defend. Betting on Sachin Tanwar was a big risk, which eventually proved wrong. Due to his massive price tag, retaining him was a difficult task, and hence, the side decided to release the expensive raider, leaving a huge gap in the raiding department. 

Talking about potential players, the team has plenty of options, as this time players like Pawan Sehrawat, Arjun Deshwal, Ashu Malik, and Naveen Kumar are included in the auction. Thalaivas need a star raider to lead the attack with force and inspire the rest of the team to be aggressive. Depending on the budget, the team can be expected to once again invest heavily in one or two raiders.

Also Read: PKL 12: List of players released, retained by Tamil Thalaivas ahead of auction

A high-profile defender must be a priority

Looking at the retention, Tamil Thalaivas have decided to keep faith in their young brigade, while they might look to buy experienced players in the auction. The side, however, needs a calm head in the defensive line to lead the troops.

Iranian powerhouses Mohammadreza Shadloui and Fazel Atrachali will go under the hammer, and the Tamil Thalaiavas could pounce on that opportunity. While stiff competition can be expected for both these players, the arrival of either of them could give the team a real boost in defence. They need a leader who can shine in difficult situations and keep the opposition raiders in check.

Naveen Kumar is a potential target

This time, star raider Naveen Kumar will also go under the hammer. The “Naveen Express” has been released by the Dabang Delhi as the outfit goes through a squad overhaul. Tamil Thalaivas could make the most of this situation and snoop in for the experienced raider.

Naveen Kumar not only scores points but also keeps the team united. The former Dabang Delhi skipper, who led the side to their only PKL title, brings composure, leadership, and experience. He loves to win, and the Thalaivas desperately need a leader who can motivate the rest of the squad to win in tight situations.

Despite returning from injury, Naveen Kumar managed to take Dabang Delhi to the semi-finals of PKL 11. Considering Naveen’s record, Tamil may consider including him in their team.

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