"There is not going to be any kind of pressure on me" - Pardeep Narwal on leading Bengaluru Bulls in Pro Kabaddi 2024 [Exclusive]
With the 11th season of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) about to begin, teams are gearing up for the intense competition. Bengaluru Bulls will be facing Telugu Titans in the opening match, and all eyes are on the Bulls' new captain, Pardeep Narwal.
Also known as the “Dubki King,” he is the league’s most prolific raider. Narwal is fully prepared for the upcoming PKL season, and is hoping to lead his team to victory. As the league’s all-time highest scorer, Pardeep is no stranger to the pressures of the game, but now, for the first time, he will also carry the responsibility of leading the Bengaluru Bulls.
In an interview with Sportskeeda ahead of the season, Pardeep Narwal shed light on the challenges that lie ahead for both himself and his team.
When asked about the key areas that Bengaluru Bulls need to focus on to become champions, Pardeep was clear that success would depend on a balanced effort across both raiding and defense.
He emphasized the importance of teamwork and collaboration, stating that victory cannot be achieved by one player alone. For Bengaluru Bulls to become champions, both their raiding and defense must be in top form.
"Bengaluru Bulls need to work on both departments (raiding and defense) Just working on raiding will not work. We have to focus on both departments and if we play together, we will definitely become champions. One player cannot make you win, all 7 players have to contribute," he said.
Pardeep Narwal on captaining Bengaluru Bulls for the first time in PKL
Pardeep Narwal’s appointment as captain for PKL 11 marks a new chapter in his illustrious career. Despite the added responsibility, the Dubki King remains calm and focused. He has made it clear that he does not feel overwhelmed by the captaincy and is confident.
"There is not going to be any kind of pressure on me. 7 players are playing, only one player is running the team. The atmosphere in the team is not such that only the captain or the vice-captain can speak. All the players can express their views and if they see that some area can be improved then they give their opinion," Pardeep stated.
Reflecting on recent performances and moving forward
Pardeep Narwal’s performance over the last few PKL seasons has not been up to his usual high standards. Having played for UP Yoddhas from season eight to season 10, the Dubki King admits that those seasons were not his best, but he is determined to bounce back.
Reflecting on his time with the UP Yoddhas, Pardeep acknowledged his shortcomings, saying,
"In the three seasons that I I have played for UP Yoddhas, my performance has not been up to expectations. Those seasons did not go well, there were some shortcomings on my part as well. This time the effort is to work on those shortcomings and perform well. I am hopeful that this time the performance will be very good."
Pardeep has since worked diligently on improving his game, and with his newfound role as captain of the Bulls, he is optimistic about leading his team to a successful PKL 11 campaign.
Known for his record-breaking achievements, including the most raid points, Super 10s, and Super Raids in the league, he will certainly be keen to make a strong comeback.