PKL: Five best overseas defenders of all-time

The PKL has seen sensational defenders from foreign countries who have performed remarkably.

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has been a great introduction to the Indian sporting landscape and has been integral in popularizing the game locally and globally. While the platform provided by the PKL has been crucial to the development of Indian players, the league has also witnessed sensational defenders from foreign nations over the years.

These foreign players impressed the Kabaddi enthusiasts and became household names thanks to their achievements. Players from outside India bring a fresh perspective and raw athleticism to the sport, often giving the dominant Indian players a run for their money. There have been plenty of skillful players in the PKL if one were to look particularly at the outstanding defenders from overseas nations.

Iran’s defenders have performed remarkably well in the Pro Kabaddi League. On that note, Let’s take a look at the top five best overseas defenders of all time in PKL history.

Hadi Oshtorak

Hadi Oshtorak of Iran has been a welcome sight in the Pro Kabaddi League. Since he arrived in the PKL, he has impressed the crowds with his reading of the game and the intensity of his performances. His skill set also allows him to go on raids, making him a brilliant all-rounder.

Hadi Oshtorak was part of the Iranian team that won a historic gold medal in the men’s Kabaddi event at the 2018 Asian Games in Indonesia after winning a silver in the previous edition. He played for teams like Telugu Titans, Patna Pirates, U Mumba, and Gujarat Giants in the PKL. The 32-year-old has amassed over 127 tackle points in 93 appearances.

Also Read: Top 10 foreign players in the history of Pro Kabaddi League

Abozar Mohajermighani

Abozar Mohajermighani is another Iranian defender who left a big impression in the Pro Kabaddi League. The 35-year-old player became popular due to his massive physique as well as unmatched athleticism and mental strength.

Abozar Mohajermighani has represented teams like Gujarat Giants, UP Yoddhas, Telugu Titans, and Bengal Warriorz in the Pro Kabaddi League. He also won a gold medal with Iran at the 2018 Asian Games and made 89 appearances in the PKL.

Reza Mirbagheri

Reza Mirbagheri has featured in three Pro Kabaddi League campaigns. He played for Jaipur Pink Panthers in all those terms, becoming an integral part of the team thanks to his all-round abilities. In 61 matches, the high-octane defender has collected 154 tackle points, making him the fourth highest points scoring defender from Iran in the PKL.

Reza Mirbagheri had a positive campaign in the 11th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League. He managed to achieve four super tackles and two High 5s, helping Jaipur Pink Panthers secure the playoffs.

Also Read: PKL: Five best overseas raiders of all-time

Mohammadreza Shadloui

Mohammadreza Shadloui is a menace to his opponents as the all-rounder loves to dominate them and thrives on scoring points in defense. The Iranian has been immense for every outfit he has represented in the Pro Kabaddi League since his arrival to the Indian shores in 2021. He initially signed for Patna Pirates, then featured for Puneri Paltan and Haryana Steelers.

Popularly known as “The Showstopper”, the 24-year-old won titles with Puneri Paltan and Haryana Steelers in the 10th and 11th editions of the PKL respectively. At the time of writing, he has amassed 354 tackle points in 92 PKL appearances.

Fazel Atrachali

Fazel Atrachali is regarded as the best overseas player to feature in the Pro Kabaddi League. The Iranian powerhouse arrived at the competition in the second season and has been an undeniable force since then. He holds the record for scoring the most tackle points in the league with 545 points in 188 matches. 

Also Read: PKL: A look at Fazel Atrachali’s journey in the Pro Kabaddi League

Fazel Atrachali has represented multiple PKL outfits such as U Mumba, Patna Pirates, Gujarat Giants, Puneri Paltan, and most recently Bengal Warriorz. He has won the PKL title and the Best Defender Award multiple times over the years and shows no sign of slowing down despite his age.

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