Pro Kabaddi 2024: Predicting the playing 7 for Tamil Thalaivas for PKL 11

Tamil Thalaivas gear up for Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 11 and will be aiming to turn their fortunes around. Since making their debut in Season 5, the team has only qualified for the playoffs once and finished ninth in PKL 10. However, with a revamped strategy and key retentions, they are poised to challenge the top teams this season.

For PKL 11, Tamil Thalaivas have a unique dual-coaching setup. Udaya Kumar serves as the head coach, while PKL veteran Dharmaraj Cheralathan has joined as the strategy coach. The franchise has retained its core defense unit, including captain Sagar Rathee, Sahil Gulia, M Abishek, and Mohit, while the raiding department is led by the emerging talent Narender. Additionally, the signing of Sachin Tanwar adds significant firepower in the raiding department.

Here's a look at the predicted playing 7 for Tamil Thalaivas in PKL 11:

#1 Narender (Raider)

Narender has emerged as one of the standout players for the Thalaivas. In his debut season in PKL 9, he racked up an impressive 243 raid points across 23 matches, guiding Tamil Thalaivas to their first-ever playoff appearance. Last season, Narender delivered another strong performance, scoring 186 raid points in 21 games. As the team's lead raider, Narender's form will be crucial if Tamil Thalaivas hope to make a playoff run in PKL 11.

#2 M Abishek (Right Cover)

M Abishek has been a mainstay in the Tamil Thalaivas defense, contributing more with his aggression and support play rather than piling up tackle points. As part of the defensive quartet, Abishek's chemistry with the team has been vital, and his role will be key in controlling the opponent's raids in coordination with the left corner.

#3 Mohit (Left Cover)

Playing on the opposite side of Abishek, Mohit brings a similar style of aggressive defending. His role is pivotal in supporting the right corner and ensuring that the defense is well-coordinated. Though not a flashy defender, Mohit’s consistency in aiding the corners helps solidify the Thalaivas' backline.

#4 Sachin Tanwar (Raider)

The addition of Sachin Tanwar provides Tamil Thalaivas with one of the most potent raiding combinations in PKL 11. With 952 raid points in 128 matches at an average of 7.44, Sachin’s experience and ability to thrive in do-or-die raids will relieve pressure from Narender. His partnership with Narender could prove to be a game-changer for the team.

#5 Chandran Ranjit (Raider)

Chandran Ranjit brings experience and versatility to the Thalaivas' raiding unit. With 534 raid points in 104 matches, Ranjit will be the supporting raider behind Narender and Sachin. His previous experience playing alongside Sachin Tanwar will also boost the team's chemistry and provide a well-rounded attack.

#6 Sahil Gulia (Left Corner)

Sahil Gulia has cemented himself as one of Tamil Thalaivas’ most reliable defenders in the left corner. Having been with the team since Season 8, Sahil’s performance has improved consistently. Last season, he accumulated 69 tackle points in 22 matches, and he'll be expected to deliver again this season.

#7 Sagar Rathee (Captain - Right Corner)

Skipper Sagar Rathee leads the Thalaivas' defense from the right corner. Since joining the team in Season 7, Sagar has developed into one of the league’s most consistent defenders. In PKL 10, he scored 66 tackle points in 18 games. With the added strength in the raiding department, Sagar will be under less pressure, which should enable him to focus on leading the defense more effectively.