9 Key Insights into Pro Kabaddi League Season 11

1. Who are the top contenders for the PKL Season 11 title?

Puneri Paltan and Gujarat Giants are among the top contenders for the PKL Season 11 title. Puneri Paltan aims to become the second team in league history to successfully defend their PKL title, while Gujarat Giants are looking to put their best foot forward after a disappointing exit last season.

2. What are the strengths of Puneri Paltan heading into Season 11?

Puneri Paltan's biggest strength is the retention of most of their title-winning squad from last season. They have retained raiders like Pankaj Mohite, Mohit Goyat, and Akash Shinde, who combined to accumulate 274 raid points last season. Additionally, they have retained most of their defensive stars, including Sanket Sawant, Abinesh Nadarajan, and Gaurav Khatri, who recorded the most tackle points (349) and the best average tackle points (14.5) last season.

3. Who are the key players in Puneri Paltan's squad?

Puneri Paltan's key players include Aslam Inamdar, who was last season's MVP with 142 raid points and 26 tackle points. The team also has a strong defensive unit led by Sanket Sawant and Abinesh Nadarajan. The retention of these players significantly strengthens their chances of defending their title.

4. What are the weaknesses of Puneri Paltan heading into Season 11?

One of the significant weaknesses of Puneri Paltan is the departure of star Iranian all-rounder Mohammadreza Chiyaneh. His presence in the team last season instilled fear in opposition raiders, and his departure has left a void in their defense that new defenders will need to fill.

5. How has Bengaluru Bulls strengthened their squad for Season 11?

Bengaluru Bulls have significantly strengthened their raiding unit by purchasing Pardeep Narwal for INR 70 lakhs and Ajinkya Pawar for INR 1.107 crores. They have also added Jai Bhagwan, who has managed 122 raid points in two seasons. These additions will provide a formidable attacking lineup for the Bulls.

6. What are the challenges facing Bengaluru Bulls' defense in Season 11?

Bengaluru Bulls' defense faces significant challenges as they lack experienced defenders. Captain Surabh Nandal is the only established defender, and he will need support from an inexperienced defensive unit. Players like Parteek, Arulnanthababu, and Rohit Kumar have collectively accumulated only 46 tackle points in their PKL careers.

7. How is Gujarat Giants' raiding unit shaping up for Season 11?

Gujarat Giants have a formidable raiding unit led by Guman Singh, who was acquired for INR 1.97 crore. Guman Singh is expected to be the team's main raider after accumulating 400 raid points in the PKL. He will be supported by Parteek Dahiya and Rakesh, both of whom are capable of wreaking havoc on opposition defenses.

8. What are the defensive concerns for Gujarat Giants in Season 11?

Gujarat Giants face significant defensive concerns as their defense is not looking up to the mark. The team relies heavily on all-round talents like Mohammad Nabibakhsh and Balaji D to make their presence felt in tackles. Neeraj Kumars performance in defense will also be crucial after a below-par campaign last time around.

9. What are the key opportunities and threats for Haryana Steelers in Season 11?

Haryana Steelers have a strong defense with three defenders in the top 10 for tackle points last season. However, their raiding line-up faces a big challenge as they lack experienced raiders. The team will need to rely on new signings like Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh and Naveen to fill the void left by their previous raiders.