Sandeep Narwal reveals secret to Dabang Delhi's title triumph in PKL 8

The all-rounder was crucial in helping the team to the title.

Dabang Delhi became the winners of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) after securing the title for Season 8. The outfit managed to lift the trophy for the first time in their history, after impressive performances from all corners. Led by the likes of Naveen Kumar and others, the squad impressed their fans and neutrals alike.

Sandeep Narwal was one of the players who played a key role in helping the team with the tournament. The all-rounder scored 64 points in 24 matches, delivering important performances in both attack and defence. Khel Now had an exclusive conversation with Narwal, talking about his career, struggles without Naveen Kumar and more.

Here are the excerpts from the conversation:

Start of career

Talking about how the love for kabaddi began, Sandeep credits it to his time in the village as a kid. He said, “My stint with kabaddi began from my village.

"We used to see experienced players and learn from them. I began my training after moving to Gandhinagar, Gujarat in 2010. The practice from a young age helps, if one has to establish themselves.”

Word on performance

Praising the performance of Dabang Delhi in the PKL, Sandeep mentioned the contribution of every player on the roster. He said, “Our team has played with a sense of unity.

"The experienced players and the young players combined well. People did not expect Dabang Delhi to make such an impact. Every player gave his 100% whenever required and this is the reason the team enjoyed success.”

Playing in absence of Naveen Kumar

Naveen Kumar was the biggest factor in helping Dabang Delhi to the title. However, he was suffering from knee issues during the season and the team had to adapt accordingly. Talking about filling in for Kumar in the raiding department, Sandeep said, “I did not have to prepare a lot because I have done a lot of raiding in the past.

"I was given the trust and I performed according to the planning of the coach. I like raiding and it is tougher than defence. You have to steal points, while in defence players come to your area. Whenever I go to make a raid, the focus is on being more speedy. I also like getting points with a running bonus.”

Focus on own game

The all-rounder puts emphasis on the need to focus on your own game, instead of strategizing about the potential moves of the opponents.

In this context, he said, “When you step on the floor for a match, thoughts like 'what will the other player do' does not come into the mind. If we focus too much on what the other player will do, it will be hard to perform.”

Praise for coach & Puneri Paltan

The secret to Delhi’s success was their coach Krishan Kumar Hooda. Sandeep gives credit to the coach, saying, “All the credit goes to the coach for trusting in my abilities. He was of the belief that Sandeep can also perform in the raiding department as per the requirement. It is difficult if the coach does not trust you.”

“A team that gave us a strong challenge was the Puneri Paltan. Their defence and offence were up to the challenge during the tie with Dabang Delhi,” he said, while stating which team was the toughest to play against. 

A well-rounded team led by experience

The conversation also revolved around Dabang Delhi’s team, which had a brilliant mixture of experience and youth. In this regard, Sandeep said, “I regard Manjeet Chillar as one of the best defenders who can bring a point at any stage of the match.

"We understand when an experienced player like him gives advice. Moreover, our team has good options in all areas and we have a great coach too. Personally, I practice more in defence, as raiding was just a necessity during Naveen’s injury.”

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