PKL Top Defender: Unveiling the Defensive Titans from Every Pro Kabaddi League Season

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has emerged as one of the most thrilling and competitive sporting events in India, captivating fans with its fast-paced and intense action. While raiders often steal the limelight with their impressive scoring abilities, the league has seen some exceptional defenders who have played a crucial role in shaping their team's success. Let's take a journey through each season of PKL and highlight the best defenders who showcased their prowess on the kabaddi mat.

Season 1 - Manjeet Chhillar (Bengaluru Bulls):

The inaugural season of PKL saw the emergence of Manjeet Chhillar as a formidable defender. Representing the Bengaluru Bulls, Chhillar exhibited his defensive brilliance, securing 51 tackle points in 16 matches. Despite his exceptional efforts, Bengaluru Bulls finished fourth after losing the third-place play-off against Patna Pirates. Nevertheless, Chhillar's performance left a lasting impact on the league.

Season 2 - Ravinder Pahal (Dabang Delhi K.C.):

Ravinder Pahal, popularly known as "The Hawk," soared high in the second season of PKL. Representing Dabang Delhi K.C., Pahal became the top defender, amassing an impressive tally of 60 tackle points, including 7 super tackles, in just 14 matches. Despite his remarkable efforts, Dabang Delhi K.C. had a challenging season, finishing in the seventh position.

Season 3 - Manjeet Chhillar (Puneri Paltan):

Season 3 witnessed the resurgence of Manjeet Chhillar, who clinched the title of the top defender once again. This time, he represented Puneri Paltan and finished with an impressive 61 tackle points, which included 5 Super Tackles, in 15 matches. Chhillar's exceptional performance played a pivotal role in helping Puneri Paltan secure the third spot in the season after defeating Bengal Warriors in the third-place play-off.

Season 4 - Fazel Atrachali (Patna Pirates):

The Iranian stalwart, Fazel Atrachali, made a significant impact in the fourth season of PKL. Playing for Patna Pirates, Atrachali stood tall as the best defender, garnering 52 tackle points, which included 7 super tackles, in 16 matches. His exceptional defensive skills proved instrumental in guiding Patna Pirates to their second successive PKL title.

Season 5 - Surender Nada (Haryana Steelers):

Surender Nada, the seasoned Indian left corner, showcased his defensive mastery in the fifth season of PKL. Playing for Haryana Steelers, Nada garnered a whopping 80 tackle points in 21 matches, securing 9 High 5s. However, despite his stellar performance, Haryana Steelers were knocked out in the Eliminator round by eventual champions Patna Pirates.

Season 6 - Nitesh Kumar (UP Yoddha):

The sixth season witnessed the rise of Nitesh Kumar as a dominant defender. Representing UP Yoddha, Nitesh Kumar proved his mettle by scoring an incredible century of tackle points (100) in 25 matches. His exceptional defensive display helped UP Yoddha reach the qualifier round.

Season 7 - Fazel Atrachali (U Mumba):

Season 7 saw Fazel Atrachali continuing his defensive brilliance, this time representing U Mumba. The Iranian left corner finished as the top defender once again, accumulating 82 tackle points in 24 matches. Despite his exceptional performance, U Mumba was eliminated in the semifinals by the eventual champions.

Season 8 - Mohammadreza Shadloui (Patna Pirates):

Following in the footsteps of his compatriot, Fazel Atrachali, Mohammadreza Chiyaneh Shadloui from Iran displayed exceptional defensive skills in the eighth season. Playing for Patna Pirates, Shadloui secured 89 tackle points in 24 matches, topping the defenders' chart. Although he put on an impressive show, Patna Pirates fell short of claiming their fourth title.

Season 9 - Ankush (Jaipur Pink Panthers):

In the most recent season, Ankush emerged as the standout defender for the Jaipur Pink Panthers. He showcased exceptional defensive prowess, tallying 89 tackle points in the season. His contribution was instrumental in guiding Jaipur Pink Panthers to the PKL 2022 final, where they displayed commendable team effort.

The Pro Kabaddi League has witnessed some extraordinary defenders over the years, who have left a lasting impact with their exceptional skills and determination. From Manjeet Chhillar to Fazel Atrachali and Ankush, each season brought new defensive stars to the fore.