Why is Sagar Rathee not playing today's Patna Pirates vs Tamil Thalaivas PKL 2024 match?
Tamil Thalaivas captain and right-corner defender Sagar Rathee is notably absent from today’s (October 25) Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2024 clash against Patna Pirates. The much-awaited Match 15 at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad marks the second consecutive game Rathee will miss due to an injury sustained earlier in the tournament.
The Thalaivas began their PKL 11 campaign on a high note with a convincing 44-29 victory over Telugu Titans. In that opener, Rathee contributed with three tackle points before he was unfortunately subbed out in the 32nd minute due to an injury.
In Rathee's absence, Sahil Gulia stepped up as captain and Amir Hossein filled the void at the right corner position. Under Gulia’s leadership, the Thalaivas pulled off a commendable victory over defending champions Puneri Paltan, defeating them 35-30.
Rathee’s injury is expected to sideline him for at least two more weeks, which means the Tamil Thalaivas will likely continue without their star defender in the upcoming fixtures. While his absence is a setback, the team’s recent performances offer hope for maintaining momentum.
Sagar Rathee’s career stats in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL)
Since making his debut with Tamil Thalaivas in PKL Season 7 (2019), Sagar Rathee has become one of the league’s most formidable right-corner defenders. His most outstanding season came in PKL 8, where he accumulated 82 tackle points across 22 games, finishing second on the list of defenders with the most tackle points. Over his PKL career, Rathee has notched up 226 tackle points in 71 matches to cement his reputation as a defensive powerhouse.
Rathee's fans and the Thalaivas faithful are eagerly awaiting his return, hoping he can contribute to the team’s aspirations for a maiden PKL title. In the meantime, the Thalaivas are rallying under Sahil Gulia’s leadership, aiming to maintain their form and secure crucial points in the tournament.