PKL 11: Defense Wins Championships, Who Gets Retained in Pro Kabaddi Season 11?

With rumours swirling about a July start date for Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 (PKL 11), fans are eagerly waiting to see their favourite teams back in action. But before the raiders and defenders take centre stage, a crucial step happens - the player retention process. Here, we'll focus on some of the top defenders who might get retained by their franchises based on their stellar performances in PKL 10.

Mohammadreza Shadlou (Puneri Paltan)
Mohammadreza Shadlou, the Iranian powerhouse played for Puneri Paltan in PKL 10. Shadlou bagged a whopping 99 tackle points, the most in the season, along with 11 High 5s and 2 Super Tackles. Averaging a staggering 4.12 tackle points per match, Shadlou was a brick wall Puneri Paltan could always rely on. His remarkable performance earned him the coveted "Orange Arm Band" (awarded to the best defender of the season). He also played a pivotal role in Puneri Paltan's championship victory. Retention for Chiyaneh seems like a no-brainer for Puneri Paltan.

Krishan Dhull (Patna Pirates)
Patna Pirates might have fallen short of the championship title, but their defensive backbone, Krishan Dhull, stood tall throughout the season. Dhull's 78 tackle points showcased his consistency, while his 6 High 5s and 5 Super Tackles showcased his ability to perform in pressure situations. Averaging 3.25 tackle points per match, Dhull was a key factor in Patna Pirates' successful run to the semifinals. 

Yogesh (Dabang Delhi)
Dabang Delhi might not have reached the finals, but their defence displayed moments of brilliance, and Yogesh was a significant contributor. He bagged 74 tackle points throughout the season, showcasing his ability to consistently stop raiders in their tracks. Adding to his impressive tally were 5 High 5s and 6 Super Tackles. Yogesh averaged 3.25 tackle points per match, solidifying his role as a dependable defender for Dabang Delhi.

Rahul Sethpal (Haryana Steelers)
While Haryana Steelers came close to championship glory, their defensive strategy relied heavily on Rahul Sethpal's ability to pull off Super Tackles. Sethpal led the league with a remarkable 15 Super Tackles. He also scored 73 tackle points and had 7 High 5s throughout the season. Averaging a healthy 3.18 tackle points per match, Sethpal was a vital cog in Haryana Steelers' defensive machinery. 

Ankush (Jaipur Pink Panthers)
Jaipur Pink Panthers might not have reached the playoffs, but they unearthed a defensive gem in Ankush. This young defender impressed everyone with his agility and strategic tackling, amassing 70 tackle points throughout the season. His knack for High 5s was evident with 8 successful attempts, and he also managed 7 Super Tackles. Ankush's average of 3 tackle points per match showcased his potential as a future defensive star. Considering his talent and room for growth, Ankush might be a valuable player Jaipur Pink Panthers would want to retain for PKL 11.

While the final call on player retention rests with the franchises, these top defenders have definitely made a strong case for themselves. Their exceptional performances in PKL 10 were crucial to their teams' success, and their presence on the mat in season 11 is highly anticipated by fans. With the PKL 11 auction expected to take place after the IPL concludes in May, these retentions will set the stage for another exciting season of Kabaddi.