Foreigners yet to arrive for Delhi Dabang
While most franchise based leagues across the world thrive on the presence of foreigners as part of their set up, the Star Sports Pro Kabaddi League, now in its 2nd edition seems to be an aberration. Take for example the team based out of the capital- the Dabangs. 3 of the 4 designated exports are yet to report for the tourney which starts in 3 days time and the mood yet, among management and players is upbeat.
As head coach Honappa C Gowda emphasized we are the best in the world in Kabaddi and thus there is little or no cause for worry, “I am not saying they aren’t important; but more than the team, their participation will do them and the sport in their country a world of good.
The PKL provides them with a unique opportunity to ply their trade with some of the best players from India and that is something they should thrive on.”He added that his team was ready, “We are 100% prepared, I understand the 3 players are getting their documentation done and should join the team soon and that will not act as a deterrent.”
Senior player and India national Surjeet Singh echoed the same “Even without the Japanese and the Korean players, we can do really well. They can join in whenever they can.”
For the uninitiated, the 4 foreigners in the Delhi Squad are:
1. Jay Bahadur (Nepal) | The only one who has been practicing with the team since July 1
2. Takimitsu Kono (Japan)
3. Yosuke Sasaki (Japan)
4.Dung Ju Hong (South Korea)