Pro Kabaddi 2024: Predicting the playing 7 for Telugu Titans for PKL 11
Telugu Titans enter the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League season (PKL 11) with the weight of expectations on their shoulders. They have been in the doldrums over the past few seasons, finishing last in three consecutive campaigns.
Despite being one of the original eight teams from the inaugural season of PKL, the Titans are yet to lift the coveted title. Their last playoff appearance came in Season 4. This year, they will want to put an end to the poor run with a refreshed lineup.
Pawan Sehrawat, one of PKL’s most iconic raiders, has been handed the captaincy. With the "Hi-Flyer" in their ranks, the Titans are looking for a rebuild to shake off the memories of their dismal recent seasons, including last season's two-win campaign. Let’s take a closer look at their probable starting seven for PKL 11.
#1 Manjeet Sharma (Raider)
Manjeet Sharma, a former Dabang Delhi KC player, is expected to play a supporting raider alongside Pawan Sehrawat and Vijay Malik. He has 125 raid points from 45 games. Manjeet previously played under current Titans coach Krishan Hooda in Delhi and has developed a good understanding with Vijay Malik as well, which could be crucial in building a cohesive attack.
Manjeet’s role will primarily involve relieving the pressure on Pawan and Vijay. If he can consistently contribute in the early phases of raids and keep the scoreboard ticking, the Titans could find more balance in their offensive play.
#2 Ajit Pawar (Left Cover)
Ajit Pawar, who debuted last season, will likely take up the left cover position. He may not be the most aggressive defender, but he has shown potential. In 20 games last season, he secured 30 tackle points, maintaining a 37% success rate.
Pawar’s defensive style is more measured, and his ability to read the game and make timely tackles will be important in preventing opposition raiders from scoring easy points.
The key for Pawar will be to work on his consistency and find the right balance between aggression and control.
#3 Milad Jabbari (Right Cover)
On the opposite side, Iranian Milad Jabbari is expected to take up the right cover position. He had a decent debut last season with the Titans, securing 33 tackle points in 13 games at an average of 2.54 points per game. His awareness in defense stood out, and with another season under his belt, Jabbari will aim to better his impact.
Given the Titans’ reliance on strong corner defenders, Jabbari’s ability to coordinate with the corners and keep opposition raiders in check will be a critical component of the team's defense.
#4 Vijay Malik (All-Rounder)
Vijay Malik returns as one of the most versatile players on the Titans’ roster. Although his debut came in Season 5, Malik truly announced himself during Season 8 when he scored 157 raid points in 23 games, helping Dabang Delhi KC secure the PKL title. Last season wasn’t as prolific for Malik, but his all-around ability gives the Titans added depth in both raiding and defense.
In PKL 11, Malik will likely play a supporting role in the raid department alongside Pawan Sehrawat while also contributing to defense.
#5 Pawan Sehrawat (Captain, All-Rounder)
Pawan Sehrawat needs no introduction. As the third-most prolific raider in PKL history with 1,189 points from 126 games, the "Hi-Flyer" is expected to lead by example. Despite the Titans’ disastrous campaign last season, Pawan was one of the few bright spots, finishing third on the list of most raid points with 202 points.
As the captain for PKL 11, Pawan’s leadership will be key in revitalizing a team that has struggled to find its identity in recent years. His ability to turn matches around and to score points in crunch situations will be central to the Titans' hopes of a comeback. However, it’s essential that Pawan is well-supported by the other raiders and defenders.
#6 Krishan Dhull (Right Corner)
Krishan Dhull had an exceptional PKL 10, emerging as the second-best defender of the season with 78 tackle points in 24 matches. Known for his aggressive style and ability to take down the best raiders, Dhull will again be a pivotal figure in the Titans’ defense.
With Pawan Sehrawat captaining the side and leading the raiding department, Krishan’s responsibility on the defensive end will be significant. If he can maintain his form, Krishan could well be one of the top defenders again this season.
#7 Ankit Jaglan (Left Corner)
Ankit Jaglan, another young player who made his debut last season, is expected to hold the left corner for the Titans. In 11 games, he managed to secure 18 tackle points, and while these numbers aren’t eye-catching, Jaglan showed flashes of potential.
As a young defender, Ankit has the opportunity to learn from teammates like Krishan Dhull and Milad Jabbari. His development will be crucial for the Titans as they look to establish a strong defensive lineup.