Pro Kabaddi 2024: Haryana Steelers' SWOT Analysis
Haryana Steelers, after finishing as runners-up in season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), will be determined to go the extra mile and claim their maiden title in the upcoming PKL 11. The Steelers have established themselves as consistent playoff contenders, having qualified in three of the six seasons they have participated in. However, the challenge ahead for Haryana is clear - to translate their strength into a well-rounded unit capable of lifting the trophy.
Guided by head coach Manpreet Singh, who previously won the PKL title as a player with the Patna Pirates, Haryana Steelers will hope that his experience can finally lead them to glory.
The Steelers have bolstered their squad heading into PKL 11, focusing on their already formidable defense. Despite not being overly active in the season 11 player auction, they managed to make some key buys.
Here are the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats for the Haryana Steelers as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Pro Kabaddi 2024: Haryana Steelers' SWOT Analysis
Strengths
The backbone of the Haryana Steelers has always been their defense, and this season will be no different. In Season 10, the Steelers boasted the best defense in the league, with three of their defenders finishing in the top 10 for tackle points. Rahul Sethpal, who led their defense with 73 tackle points, and Jaideep Dahiya, who contributed 68 tackle points, were two of the standout performers. Both will continue to be vital cogs in the Steelers’ defensive lineup this season.
In addition to retaining them, Haryana made a marquee signing at the Season 11 Player Auction, securing the services of Mohammadreza Shadloui for ₹2.07 crore. Shadloui, the Iranian all-rounder, topped the tackle points chart last season with 99 points, making him a perfect fit for an already robust Steelers’ defense. The combination of Shadloui, Sethpal, and Dahiya creates a formidable defensive trio that will make life difficult for opposition raiders.
Weaknesses
While their defense is a clear strength, the Steelers face issues in attack. Their raiding department lacks experienced players who can consistently deliver. Vinay, their most seasoned raider, scored 163 raid points last season, but the responsibility of leading the attack will weigh heavily on his shoulders. Over his four seasons with the Steelers, Vinay has managed 372 raid points, and he will need to elevate his game if Haryana are to challenge for the title.
Shivam Patare, who had a promising debut in Season 10 with 116 raid points, is expected to support Vinay in the raiding department. However, beyond these two, the Steelers lack proven raiders. Young talents like Vikas Jadhav, Gnana Abishek S, Sanskar Mishra, and Jayasoorya Ns are yet to make their PKL debut, leaving the Steelers vulnerable if their main raiders struggle.
Opportunities
A possible prospect for the Haryana Steelers is the possibility of utilizing Mohammadreza Shadloui as an additional raiding option. While known primarily for his defensive skills, he showed glimpses of raiding potential last season, contributing 27 raid points and executing two Super Raids for Puneri Paltan. With the Steelers’ raiding unit needing more firepower, he could be called upon to contribute to the attack, adding a new dimension to their game.
Another player who could step up is Vishal Tate, who showed promise by scoring 24 raid points in just three games last season. If he can replicate and build on that form, he could provide the Steelers with much-needed depth in their raiding department.
Threats
The biggest threat to the Haryana Steelers’ title ambitions is the lack of depth and experience in both attack and defense. Their raiding unit, beyond Vinay and Shivam, is largely unproven at the PKL level. If these two fail to perform consistently, the Steelers may struggle to accumulate raid points, which could cost them matches in crucial moments.
While Haryana possess a solid core with Sethpal, Dahiya, and Shadloui, they are heavily reliant on this trio. The other defenders, including right cover Manikandan N, right corner Ashish Gill, left corner Hardeep, and Manikandan S, are yet to make their PKL debuts, while Sanjay has only six matches under his belt.
Any injury or dip in form for their key defenders could force the Steelers to rely on inexperienced players, which could expose vulnerabilities.