Thank you for the memories, Anup Kumar!
It is difficult to forget the person who has given you a lot to remember.
It is difficult to neglect the legacy that has ruled over the hearts of many enthusiasts.
Even if you say goodbye to the Kabaddi, we will always enjoy your legacy and cherish your passion towards the game.
A living legend. A strategy maker. A father-like figure and an inspiration to a lot of young devoted Kabaddi players who look up to him and imagine themselves in his position. Anup Kumar, also known as 'Captain Cool' is one of the best gifts the game of Kabaddi has to offer.
The legendary captain, Anup Kumar has announced his retirement officially from the game of Kabaddi. Heartfelt emotions flew all over the Kabaddi world as he announced his retirement on 19th December 2018 (on his son, Avi's birthday) during the pre-match presentation of the match between Jaipur Pink Panthers and Gujarat Fortune Giants.
Perhaps the most beloved Kabaddi player of them all, Anup Kumar has achieved a lot in the sport as the face of Kabaddi. As a player, Anup was a mastermind in transfiguring toe touches and taking bonuses which many defenders find difficult to read even today.
However, Anup Kumar as a captain kept a strategic mindset with calm execution throughout his venture. He was able to control the excitement of many young players who've played under him and enforce many senior players to play with a free mindset. Anup Kumar always treated pressure situations with ease without expressing it on the Kabaddi mat which became his most loved possession.
The Gold medalist of 2010 and 2014 Asian Games brought glory representing the Indian colors whereas he took his Pro Kabaddi team, U Mumba to its first title back in 2015. He led Team India to win the Kabaddi World Cup 2016. Also, he led his team to win the gold medal at the 2016 South Asian Games. Because of his immense contribution to the game of Kabaddi, Anup Kumar got awarded with Arjuna Award back in 2012.
Back in 2014 when Kabaddi got a new recognition within the sporting enthusiasts with the launch of Pro Kabaddi, Anup Kumar got the highest number of points in the inaugural season (169 points). Anup Kumar is the only captain in the history of Pro Kabaddi to have led a team (U Mumba) for five seasons consecutively.
Anup Kumar became the 6th fastest raider to cross 500 raid points in Pro Kabaddi history. With over 91 matches played, Anup Kumar scored 13 Super 10s and with 16 points as the most scored points in a single game. He scored a total of 527 raid points along with 69 tackle points with 17 super raids. Not only his raiding abilities, but he also played like an all-rounding captain with his ankle holds that were beautiful to watch.
The sudden announcement of Anup sir's retirement has sent a lot of sad emotions flowing with the utmost respect for how he has taken the game of Kabaddi to a whole new level. The memories are endless, yet we as Kabaddi fans will celebrate it every day.
On behalf of Sportskeeda, we would like to wish Anup sir many congratulations of achievements over the years and best wishes for the relaxing years ahead with his family and close ones!