5 defenders who set stage on fire in PKL 10

PKL 10 came to an end with a thrilling final. It turned out to be one of the best editions of the league. The fans were too happy with the quality of the matches, startegies involved and a lot of other factors which made the tournament an enjoyable ride. In the end, the team that dominated the league stage and the knockouts ended up winning the title. Puneri Paltan won their maiden title after ending the PKL 9 as the runner ups. 

On the other hand, Haryana Steelers put on a stellar performance to be in their first ever PKL final. Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers did well to finish the league as the semifinalists. Gujarat Giants and Dabangg Delhi K C finished the tournament after reaching the playoffs. While the teams looked to qualify for the playoffs, most of them took on the defensive approach. Do-or-die strategies were used a lot by all the teams including the final.

The game has become increasingly defensive in the last few years. The role of defenders has become more crucial than it ever was. Hence, having defenders is a crucial part of any squad. But having a world class defensive unit is a privilege to the teams. Some of the defenders shined well in the 10th edition of the PKL. Her are the top five defenders who were impressive in the league.

Also check: Top 5 active players who have represented 5 or more PKL teams (skyfair.news)

5. Mohit Nandal

Mohit Nandal had a good season as a defender for Haryana Steelers. The talented defender acted as a good supporting defender but performed as well as the lead defender for Steelers. Mohit was crucial in his end for the success of the runner ups. He was good even in the final. Unfortunately, Steelers could not win the title. With his ankle hold, Nandal made a name for himself. The star defender featured in 23 matches for Haryana. In as many games, he registered a total of 70 tackle points. 

4. Rahul Sethpal

Rahul Sethpal was the best defender of the season for Haryana Steelers. he was good in the final against Puneri Paltan. The star defender had the most tackle points for the runner ups in the season where they gave their best. While Siddharth Desai was the lead raider and stole the show many a time, Sethpal was the star performer in the defensive lineup. While Nandal was brilliant from his end, Rahul controlled the other end in an even better way. Sethpal claimed 73 tackle points from 23 games at a good success rate. 

3. Yogesh Dahiya

Yogesh Dahiya emerged to be the best young player of the 10th edition of the PKL. He was brilliant for Dabang Delhi throughout the season. While most of the focus was on the senior players in the lineup, Yogesh silently performed for Delhi. By the end of the league, Dahiya emerged as one of the players of the tournament. He certainly seems to be the fire of the sport given the way he operated as a defender. Yogesh featured in 23 matches for Dabang Delhi K C and claimed a total of 74 tackle points, which was highly impressive.

2. Krishan Dhull

Krishan Dhull was one of the bright spots for Patna Pirates in the 10th edition of the Pro Kabaddi League. In a season which was a mixed bag for the 3-time champions, Dhull stood out. In many instances, he singlehandedly won the gane for his side. The performances of the youngster did not go in vain as despite having an average squad, Patna were able to make it to the semis. Kishan played in 24 matches for Patna. He claimed a total of 78 tackle points to his name, which was brilliant with little support.

1. Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh

Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh was brilliant for Puneri Paltan. He had a better control in the 10th edition of the PKL and did not go after the raiders. He was a proper All rounder in the league and often fetched points for his side both as a raider and as a defender. The fact that he had s better control and yet managed to outperform other defenders in the league showed why he is a world class defender. He was head and shoulders above every defender in the league. In 24 appearances for Puneri, Shadloui fetched a whopping 99 tackle points, which is 21 more than the second best in the season.