PKL 9: Predicted starting seven of UP Yoddha

All eyes would be on Pardeep Narwal once again in the upcoming season.

Who can forget UP Yoddha’s master stroke at the auction when the giant franchise used their FBM to retain Pardeep Narwal, who was almost going to the Gujarat Giants squad? Well, the team is strong in every department, and with players like Pardeep in the squad, there are too many expectations. The franchise has not won any titles so far but has reached the playoffs on all four occasions since its inaugural season. This time, the team looks more balanced and will be looking to win the title. Here we are with some information about the squad followed by the probable starting seven of UP Yoddha:

Pardeep Narwal’s presence in the squad

The ‘Dubki King', Pardeep Narwal, has been one of the greatest players to have ever played this sport. He is currently sitting at the top with over 1300 raid points to his name. He will surely going to be in the playing seven for UP. Pardeep was released by the franchise before the auction but they retained him using FBM when the Gujarat Giants showed their desperation for the legend. The raider from Haryana will look to continue his good performance in the upcoming season to increase his raid points tally.

Combination of Nitesh Kumar and Sumit

The defense unit has been extraordinary as well, with the inclusion of Nitesh Kumar and Sumit. In 91 matches till date, Nitesh has scored 279 tackle points, while Sumit has impressed everyone with his tackle point tally of 139 points in 46 games. Apart from them, Abozar Mighani is also in the squad to provide more strength. UP Yoddha is highly dependent of their defense this time, and if it fails, we might not witness UP in the playoffs for the first time.

Bad patch can cost them few games

Without any doubt, the franchise has superstars on their list in the form of Pardeep Narwal and Nitin Tomar, but both of them are not in their best form. They have to be at their best to take their side forward. Nitin has lost his touch in the last couple of seasons, while Pardeep’s form has dipped a bit too. If these two major players won’t perform, then Surender Gill has to take all the responsibility of raiding, which can affect the team.

Players to watch out for

Pardeep Narwal will be the lead raider for UP Yoddha and all eyes will be on him in the upcoming season. Nitin Tomar is another star raider who will look to regain his lost form. The combination of Nitesh and Sumit is another unit to look at.

Here's a look at the starting seven of the UP Yoddha:

Raiders: Pardeep Narwal, Nitin Tomar, Surender Gill

All-Rounder: Abozar Mighani

Defenders: Nitesh Kumar, Sumit, Ashu Singh