The Pro Kabaddi League and its inception have promoted a whole lot of young talent from the streets of Haryana and Punjab. This league is an example of how effective channelization can help the growth of players. It brings out the best of talent in the country. Our very own Indian Sport Kabaddi which seemed dead, you rekindled by this beautiful conceptualization. From the aged veterans like Anup Kumar and Rakesh Kumar to the relatively younger Rahul Chaudhari and Ajay Thakur, raiders have generally had the spotlight. Here’s a quick look at the top 5 raiders of the PKL: –
Maninder Singh: –
Maninder Singh, the Bengal Warrior’s top raider is an absolute beast on the field. He is the skipper for the Bengal Warriors and also is their leading point scorer. Starting his PKL campaign in the Jaipur Pink Panthers, he formed a formidable pair with Arjun Awardee Jasvir Singh. Maninder and his hairstyles are always a treat to watch! His agility and jumps are what make him special. He has scored 731 raid points in 79 games.
Ajay Thakur: –
Ajay Thakur and his celebratory “Star Jump” are a trademark of Pro Kabaddi! Thakur is definitely a champion. The star raider is also a big match player. He has the ability to strike the iron when it is absolutely hot. Ajay also hails from the “Pinds” of Haryana. Being the boy from the home of Kabaddi Ajay is bound to excel! Ajay has amassed a huge total of 790 points in 115 games.
Deepak Niwas Hooda: –
Born in Andhra Pradesh, Deepak didn’t fail to excel in the sport of his native place. He was an integral part of the team that clinched the Asian Games Gold in 2016. Deepak has played for 3 teams including Telugu Titans, Puneri Paltan, and the Jaipur Pink Panthers. Deepak has secured 856 points from 123 Games! He is also a great defender which makes him an all-around performer on the mat.
Rahul Chaudhari: –
Coming in from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, Rahul is the nation’s pride. He has the ability to make Kabaddi look graceful. He has the ability to pick a smooth toe touch. Rahul initially played for the Tamil Thalaivas and Telugu Titans before moving to Puneri Paltan. Chaudhari has claimed 955 raid points from 122 matches.
Pardeep Narwal: –
Pardeep Narwal certainly is the face of the PKL. Narwal, season after season has dominated the defenders. His “Dubki” is his hallmark. His agility and athleticism are too second to none. He is light-footed which allows him to move swiftly. This 24-year-old from Sonepat, Haryana has played extensively for Patna Pirates before settling at the UP Yoddhas. In the auction of 2021, Pardeep claimed the highest bid for Indian Rupees 1.65 Cr. Striking 1160 points from 106 matches, Pardeep is in a league of his own!