New Delhi [India], September 19 (ANI): The Bengaluru Bulls, champions of Season 6 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), are eager to reclaim their glory and secure the PKL title once again after missing out in the last four seasons. Despite making it to the playoffs in three of the previous four campaigns, they fell short of a playoff berth in Season 10.

Historically, the Bengaluru Bulls have showcased commendable consistency, reaching the playoffs in six out of the ten PKL seasons so far. Their pinnacle achievement came in Season 6 when they clinched the championship, and they also secured a runners-up position in Season 2, alongside four other playoff appearances.

Heading into Season 11, the Bulls will continue to rely on the expertise of head coach Randhir Singh Sehrawat. As the league’s longest-serving coach, Sehrawat has been with the franchise since its inception and is renowned for his strategic acumen.

During the Season 11 Player Auction, the Bengaluru Bulls were active and strategic, assembling a squad teeming with promising talent. The revamped raiding unit stands out and is expected to pose significant challenges to opposing defenses. Notably, the Bulls acquired Pardeep Narwal for Rs 70 lakhs and Ajinkya Pawar for Rs 1.107 crores. Pardeep Narwal, celebrated as the highest-scoring raider in PKL history with 1,690 raid points, aims to return to his peak form. Ajinkya Pawar, another formidable raider with 454 raid points, adds depth to their raiding arsenal.

Pardeep Narwal’s journey with the Bulls began in Season 2, and he is hopeful of a resurgence this season. Ajinkya Pawar, who was the seventh most-expensive player in the Season 11 Auction, brings consistency with an average of over 100 raid points across the last three seasons.

Adding further strength to their raiding lineup is Jai Bhagwan, purchased for Rs 63 lakhs. Bhagwan has accumulated 122 raid points over two seasons and is eager to make a significant impact this year. Additionally, retained raiders like Sushil and Akshit bolster their offensive options; Sushil notched up 100 raid points last season, while Akshit contributed 61 raid points.

The defensive unit of the Bengaluru Bulls will face a stern test in Season 11. Captain Saurabh Nandal, an established defender with 246 tackle points in his career, will lead from the front. However, he will need substantial support from a relatively inexperienced defensive lineup. Parteek, Arulnanthababu, and Rohit Kumar have collectively secured 46 tackle points over one season each, and their performance will be pivotal.

Ponparthiban Subramanian also joins this defensive mix with 40 tackle points accumulated over four seasons. His experience could be crucial in shoring up the defense.

The return of all-rounder Nitin Rawal after missing Season 10 due to injury presents an exciting opportunity for the team. Known for his dual-threat capability, Rawal has amassed 142 raid points and 94 tackle points in his PKL career. His defensive prowess will be vital for a team that appears slightly vulnerable at the back. Bought for Rs 13 lacs at the Player Auction, Rawal’s partnership with fellow all-rounder Chandranaik M will be essential. Chandranaik M is known for his robust tackling skills, which could be decisive for the Bulls.

The trajectory of Bengaluru Bulls’ Season 11 largely hinges on Pardeep Narwal’s performance. Dubbed the “Dubki King,” Narwal has faced challenges in recent campaigns but looks to turn things around under coach Randhir Singh Sehrawat’s guidance—the very coach who gave him his PKL debut.

A resurgent Pardeep Narwal could spell a successful season for the Bulls. However, if he struggles, the absence of a consistent main raider could pose a significant challenge. While Ajinkya Pawar, Jai Bhagwan, Sushil, and Akshit are talented, they lack the experience and consistency needed to lead as primary raiders under high pressure and expectations. (ANI)