Pro Kabaddi 2024: Telugu Titans' SWOT Analysis
The Telugu Titans, a Hyderabad-based franchise in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), have struggled in recent seasons, finishing at the bottom of the table for the past three consecutive years.
As they head into Season 11 of the league, the Titans are determined to turn things around and climb up the rankings. With a fresh strategy, key acquisitions, and the appointment of a renowned head coach, they aim to bounce back stronger than ever.
To address their performance issues, the Titans brought in Krishna Kumar Hooda, a Dronacharya award-winning coach known for nurturing young talent. By retaining players such as all-rounders Sanjeevi S and Shankar Gadai, who showed promise previously, and adding more experienced players through the auction, the Telugu Titans have taken significant steps to bolster both their attack and defense.
With a young core eager to prove themselves and new acquisitions adding depth, the Titans appear poised for a more competitive outing in PKL Season 11.
Pro Kabaddi 2024: Telugu Titans' SWOT Analysis
Strengths
One of the biggest strengths for the Telugu Titans is the return of star raider Pawan Sehrawat, whom they secured using the Final Bid Match (FBM) card for ₹1.725 crore. Sehrawat, known for his explosive raiding abilities, is expected to lead the attack.
Additionally, the team strengthened its raiding department with the acquisition of Manjeet Sharma and Ashish Narwal, who both add versatility and depth to the squad.
In terms of defense, the Titans made key additions, notably Krishan Dhull for ₹70 lakh, one of the top defenders in the previous season. Iranian all-rounder Milad Jabbari and defender Sunder, both picked for ₹13 lakh each, will add muscle to the backline, ensuring the Titans' defense is tougher to breach.
Weaknesses
While the Titans have made several improvements, they have struggled with consistency in the past, especially in defense. Despite adding key defensive players, coordination remains an area of concern, as the Titans will need to ensure their backline functions as a cohesive unit.
Furthermore, a reliance on Pawan Sehrawat in raiding might put pressure on him, and if opposing teams manage to neutralize his threat, the Titans could face difficulties.
Opportunities
With the inclusion of young talent and experienced players like Vijay Malik and Amit Kumar, the Titans have a solid opportunity to create a balanced team capable of challenging the top teams.
Under Krishna Kumar Hooda's guidance, the team have a chance to develop and execute more effective strategies, particularly in the defense.
Threats
Despite their reinforcements, the Telugu Titans' long-standing underperformance pose a psychological challenge. If they fail to build early momentum, they risk falling into the same patterns of inconsistency.
Additionally, the pressure to deliver after multiple disappointing seasons could weigh heavily on the players, particularly the young players coming into the side.
The Telugu Titans have laid the foundation for a potential resurgence in PKL Season 11. However, their success will largely depend on team coordination, consistency, and how well they can overcome the barriers of past failures.