PKL 11: Top five defenders to watch out for at Pro Kabaddi League season 11

The Pro Kabaddi League is ready to set foot into the second decade of its existence from the 18th of October. It’s said in cricket that bowlers win championships and batsmen win games. In Kabaddi, the defenders win championships while the Raiders win games. While raiders can rack up points, defenders have the option to eliminate them, which not only prevents the adversary from scoring points but also lowers morale.

The defenders add intrigue to the game while the Raiders chase after the points. The support is captivating because of the Ankle Hold, Thigh Hold, The Dash, and how they all simultaneously pounce on a raider. Season 11 (PKL 11) will feature some of the top defenders for teams to jump on and construct a strong wall. Let’s look at the top defenders in the fray for the season (PKL 11).

#5 Krishan Dhull – Telugu Titans

Many were impressed by Krishan Dhull’s defensive abilities, particularly his advanced tackles, which appeared more natural and showed superior readiness to bring down the raider. The 22-year-old attributed the development to Narender Redu, the coach of the Patna Pirates. Dhull significantly improved to score 78 tackle points in season 10 after only managing to get 61 in the previous two seasons.

His ability to foresee the Raiders’ movements from their gaze delighted the spectators, making him a pleasure to watch. Telugu Titans spent big bucks to get him into the team and will be leading the defense of the franchise. The corner specialist will look to catch down the opposition raiders and bring down some good fortunes, which the team desperately wants.

#4 Gaurav Khatri – Puneri Paltans

The triangle love triangle involving Gaurav Khatri, Puneri Paltan, and the right corner will be seen through Pro Kabaddi League season 11. The defender had a key role in the Paltan team’s 2023–24 title-winning campaign. His astounding 61% tackle strike rate gave the impression that the mat was a minefield for the raiders and Khatri would have plans to try to duplicate it as well.

His combination with the left corner Mohammadreza Shadloui was one of the talking points of their campaign last season. But the Paltans decided to let go of the Iranian and hired Mohit Khaler to replace him. Gaurav Khatri will be the leader of the defense this season and would like to continue their good work along with Abinesh Nadarajan and Sanket Sawant in their bid to defend the title.

#3 Surjeet Singh – Jaipur Pink Panthers

Being one of the most sought-after defenders, Surjeet Singh is the most successful Indian defender in league history. Since appointing him as captain, the Bengal Warriors and Tamil Thalaivas have centered their squads on him. He helped the Bengaluru Bulls win important games during his time there last season.

In the auction, teams pursued him with his reputation for brutal dashes and it was Jaipur Pink Panthers who snatched the right-cover defender. He will prove to be a great asset to the team as he has expertise in managing young players in high-pressure circumstances. Jaipur might appoint him as the skipper to have him represent them at toss time.

#2 Jaideep Dahiya – Haryana Steelers

A total of 188 tackle points in three seasons is nothing short of an incredible performance. Jaideep Dahiya has been one of the finest cover defenders in the last few seasons and has been retained in the young players category. Their coach Manpreet Singh relishes such talents and wants to ensure continuity.

These stats will make everyone retain him with no second thoughts. The left-cover defender played a key role in the last year’s journey to the finals. He would want to get it better this time and lay their hands on the trophy. His combination with Shadloui will be one to watch out for this season.

#1 Fazel Atrachali – Bengal Warriorz

The release of Fazel Atrachali by Gujarat Giants raised many eyebrows. The Iranian is not only the most successful overseas player in league history but also a natural leader. People thought he would be one of the most sought-after players in the auction but to the surprise of everyone, he was bought by Bengal Warriorz for just 50 lakhs.

When the Gujarat and Pune teams made it to the finals in seasons five and nine, he was their captain. Additionally, he participated in championship runs with U Mumba in season two and Patna Pirates in season four. He has been of great value to every team he has been part of and Bengal Warriorz would be happy to have him in the corner and guide the team to another title.

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