The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2024 season (PKL 11) was an exciting event. It featured intense competition and great performances from both experienced and new players. However, this season, defense took center stage, as the Raiders found it exceptionally challenging to breach strong defensive walls. Teams like Haryana Steelers, Tamil Thalaivas, and U Mumba were known for their strong defense. They made even the best raiders work hard for their points.
Among the veteran defenders, new faces emerged, showing their mettle in their debut season. These debutant defenders caught everyone’s attention with their remarkable performances. Here are the top five debutant defenders from Pro Kabaddi 2024. They were impressed with their skills and built a strong foundation for their future careers in the league.
Top 5 Best Debutant Defenders of PKL 11
| Rank | Player Name | Team | Matches Played | Tackle Points | Tackle Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Gaurav Chhillar | Dabang Delhi | 15 | 19 | 33% |
| 4 | Sandeep Deswal | Dabang Delhi | 20 | 27 | 34% |
| 3 | Rohit Poonia | Gujarat Giants | 15 | 24 | 40% |
| 2 | Sagar Sethpal | Telugu Titans | 22 | 41 | 35% |
| 1 | Himanshu Jaglan | Gujarat Giants | 18 | 44 | 54% |
5. Gaurav Chhillar (Dabang Delhi)
Dabang Delhi had a remarkable season in PKL 11, boasting a long unbeaten streak. Gaurav Chhillar did not start in the playing seven at first. However, he became a key part of the team’s defense as the season went on. He made 19 tackle points in 15 matches with a 33% tackle success rate. Chhillar’s growth throughout the season showcased his potential, and he became a key player in Dabang Delhi’s defensive lineup.
4. Sandeep Deswal (Dabang Delhi)
Another rising star for Dabang Delhi was Sandeep Deswal. His combination of tackles and dash-outs were key in many matches. Deswal played mostly in the left cover position. He made 27 tackle points in 20 matches. His tackle success rate was a solid 34%. His steady play and skill in tough situations made him known as one of the best new defenders this season.
3. Rohit Poonia (Gujarat Giants)
Despite Gujarat Giants’ disappointing season overall, their defense showed resilience, especially with debutant Rohit Poonia’s exceptional performance. Playing in the right corner, Poonia made 24 tackle points in 15 matches, boasting a 40% tackle success rate. His fearless style of play and strong defense in key moments helped the Gujarat Giants stay competitive all season.
2. Sagar Sethpal (Telugu Titans)
Sagar Sethpal, the younger brother of Rahul Sethpal, made an instant impact in his debut season with Telugu Titans. While the team just missed out on the playoffs, Sethpal’s contribution to the defense was a bright spot. He secured 41 tackle points in 22 matches with a 35% tackle success rate. Sethpal;s presence on the mat helped the Telugu Titans a lot. His strong performance earned him a place among the best new defenders.
1. Himanshu Jaglan (Gujarat Giants)
Himanshu Jaglan was arguably the best debutant defender in PKL 11. Playing as a right corner for Gujarat Giants, Jaglan was a key figure in their defense throughout the season. His great tackling skills and teamwork helped him score 44 tackle points in only 18 matches. He had an impressive 54% tackle success rate. Jaglan played a key role for the Gujarat Giants. He proved to be one of the best defenders in the league during his first season.
Conclusion
These five new defenders made a strong impact in PKL 11. Their performances have set the stage for the future. The upcoming seasons will be tough as raiders change their tactics. However, these players will keep growing and impacting the game. Keep an eye on them as they rise through the ranks of Pro Kabaddi.
Who do you think was the best debutant defender of PKL 11? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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