Pro Kabaddi League 2024: UP Yoddhas' all-time PKL 7
UP Yoddhas have established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in the league since their debut in Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 5. They have qualified for the playoffs in every season except for Season 10, where they finished in 11th place. Despite this impressive playoff streak, the team has yet to reach the final or secure a title, making the upcoming Season 11 a crucial opportunity for redemption.
The team has witnessed the emergence of some great players who have donned the UP jersey. As they prepare for PKL Season 11, let’s take a look at their all-time playing 7.
#1 Pardeep Narwal (Raider)
When we talk about raiding, Pardeep Narwal is often the first name that springs to mind. Known as the "Record-Breaker," Pardeep made his mark by winning three titles with Patna Pirates before joining the Yoddhas in Season 8. His arrival brought a wave of excitement.
His initial season with UP saw him score 188 points in 24 games—good, but below the sky-high standards he had set previously. However, he rebounded impressively in Season 9, scoring 220 raid points in 22 games, averaging a remarkable 10 points per match.
Unfortunately, Pardeep’s performance dipped in Season 10, where he managed only 122 raid points in 17 games.
#2 Shrikant Jadhav (Raider)
Shrikant Jadhav became an integral part of UP Yoddhas from Season 6 to Season 8, playing as a supporting raider alongside stars like Pardeep. Over his three seasons with the team, he scored a commendable 381 raid points in 70 matches.
Shrikant’s ability to complement the lead raiders by effectively finding gaps in the opponent's defense made him a crucial asset for the Yoddhas.
#3 Surender Gill (Raider)
Emerging as a significant player for UP Yoddhas, Surender Gill made his PKL debut in Season 7. His debut was modest, with 71 raid points in 18 games. However, he quickly elevated his game, scoring 189 raid points in 23 games during Season 8, averaging 8.22 points per match. Surender’s performance continued to improve, as he scored 140 raid points in just 14 games in Season 9.
In Season 10, he faced injury issues but still managed 87 raid points in 10 games. With a trajectory pointing upwards, Surender is expected to be a cornerstone of UP’s raiding strategy as they aim for greater success in Season 11.
#4 Nitesh Kumar (Captain, Right Corner)
Nitesh Kumar, a face of UP Yoddhas since their inception, has been a mainstay in the team’s defense. Making his debut in Season 5, Nitesh played every season until Season 10 before moving to Bengal Warriorz. He made an impressive debut with 47 tackle points in 19 games but truly came into his own in Season 6, where he recorded a record 100 tackle points in 25 games, the most by any player in a single season.
His defensive contributions continued with 75 points in Season 7, 57 in Season 8, though his performance waned slightly in Seasons 9 and 10 with 34 and 37 points, respectively. Despite this dip, Nitesh's legacy as a defensive stalwart for UP Yoddhas remains strong.
#5 Sumit (Left Corner)
Sumit has quietly built a reputation as a dependable left corner defender since joining UP Yoddhas in Season 7. In his debut season, he made an immediate impact with 77 tackle points in 22 games. He followed up with solid performances, scoring 62 tackle points in Season 8, 54 in Season 9, and 61 in Season 10.
His consistency has been instrumental in UP’s defensive setup, often stepping up when needed and making crucial tackles. Sumit’s continued presence in the lineup will be vital as UP Yoddhas look to strengthen their defense in Season 11.
#6 Ashu Singh (Right Cover)
Ashu Singh joined the Yoddhas in Season 7 and has been an average performer throughout his tenure, accumulating 160 tackle points in 87 games. While his performance hasn’t been spectacular, Ashu has provided steady support in the right cover position, making him a valuable asset to the team.
As UP Yoddhas prepare for PKL 11, Ashu will need to elevate his game to contribute significantly to strengthen the defensive unit.
#7 Gurdeep (Left Cover)
Completing the all-time playing seven is Gurdeep, who also made his debut in Season 7. Despite limited game time in his first season, he has accumulated a total of 85 tackle points in 60 games. While his stats may not be eye-catching, Gurdeep has shown glimpses of potential.
After serving the Yoddhas for four seasons, he has now moved to Patna Pirates.