Pro Kabaddi League 2023: Crafting a Championship-Worthy Lineup for Jaipur Pink Panthers Against Puneri Paltan

The Pro Kabaddi League 2023 is set for a showdown as defending champions Jaipur Pink Panthers prepare to face the formidable Puneri Paltan on Monday, December 4, at The Arena by TransStadia, Ahmedabad. With Jaipur boasting a lineup that carried them to victory in the previous season, their strategy for PKL 10 remains consistent, having retained most of their players and avoiding major signings at the auction.

Anticipated Playing 7 for Jaipur Pink Panthers

Rahul Chaudhari (Center)

The first poster boy of the Pro Kabaddi League, Rahul Chaudhari, returns to the Jaipur Pink Panthers at his base price of ₹13 lakh. While initially going unsold at the auction, the Panthers secured his services, expecting a resurgence. Chaudhari showcased glimpses of returning to form in the last season with 73 points in 21 matches, including two Super 10s. As a pivotal figure in the raiding department, his strategic gameplay will be vital for the Pink Panthers.

Reza Mirbhageri (Left Cover)

Making his PKL debut for Jaipur Pink Panthers last season, Iranian left cover defender Reza Mirbhageri impressed with 36 points in 16 matches. With a year of PKL experience under his belt, Mirbhageri is expected to step up as the left cover defender in the starting seven, fortifying the Panthers' defense against Puneri Paltan's raiding onslaught.

Sunil Kumar (Right Cover)

Sunil Kumar, the captain of Jaipur Pink Panthers last season, continues to lead the team into PKL 10. Having captained the Panthers to the championship, Kumar's experience and defensive prowess make him a stalwart in the right cover position. With 65 points in 23 matches last season, he is a key asset for the Panthers' defensive strategy.

Arjun Deshwal (Left In)

Arjun Deshwal emerged as the biggest match-winner for Jaipur Pink Panthers in PKL 9, amassing a staggering 296 points in just 24 matches. With a raid strike rate of 64% and 17 Super 10s to his name, Deshwal's dynamic raiding style makes him a force to be reckoned with. As the left in raider, Deshwal aims to replicate his stellar performance in PKL 10.

V Ajith Kumar (Right In)

V Ajith Kumar, the former U Mumba raider, brings an X-factor to the Pink Panthers' raiding arsenal. With 103 points in 21 matches last season, Kumar plays a crucial supporting raider role. His three Super 10s and two super raids highlight his athleticism and ability to turn the tide in favor of the Panthers.

Ankush Rathee (Left Corner)

Ankush Rathee emerged as the find of the season for Jaipur Pink Panthers in PKL 9. With 89 tackle points in 24 matches, including nine High 5s and five super tackles, Rathee showcased exceptional defensive skills. With more PKL experience, Rathee targets breaching the 100-point mark as the left corner defender.

Sahul Kumar (Right Corner)

Sahul Kumar, a two-season veteran with Jaipur Pink Panthers, joins Ankush Rathee in the corner defense. Having earned more than 100 points over two seasons, Sahul Kumar's partnership with Rathee forms a formidable defensive duo. With backups like Sumit Malik and Lucky Sharma, the Panthers have defensive depth to counter Puneri Paltan's raids.

Probable 7 for Jaipur Pink Panthers Against Puneri Paltan

The anticipated playing seven for Jaipur Pink Panthers comprises seasoned campaigners and rising stars - Rahul Chaudhari, Reza Mirbhageri, Sunil Kumar, Arjun Deshwal, V Ajith Kumar, Ankush Rathee, and Sahul Kumar. This lineup showcases a strategic balance of experience and youthful vigor, reflecting the Panthers' commitment to continuity and success.

As the defending champions face off against Puneri Paltan in the PKL 10 battle, fans can expect a thrilling encounter filled with skillful raids, robust defenses, and tactical brilliance. Jaipur Pink Panthers aim to maintain their championship pedigree and start the new season on a winning note, setting the stage for another glorious campaign in the Pro Kabaddi League.