Pro Kabaddi: Consistent Ravi Kumar earns coach Ashok Shinde’s praise

Puneri Paltan’s Ravi Kumar

The curtains fell on yet another disappointing campaign for the Puneri Paltan which ended in them finishing at the bottom of the pile for yet another season in the running. With just two wins and a draw, the Puneri Paltan had very little to smile throughout the season.

But, there were a few young players who left their mark on Pune’s campaign. One of them was right corner defender Ravi Kumar. After getting his chances, Ravi grabbed them with both hands and left an impression on coach Ashok Shinde every time he went out on the pitch.

Speaking to Sportskeeda at the end of their campaign, the Puneri Paltan coach Ashok Shinde picked out Ravi Kumar as the player that left him most impressed.

“Ravi Kumar is the player which really impressed me this season. Since the 1^st to the 14^th game he has been consistently improving and never let me down whenever I have shown faith in him,” said Ashok Shinde.

Playing his first season in Star Sports Pro Kabaddi, Ravi Kumar appeared in 13 of the 14 games which his team played and racked up 37 defence points throughout the season. Ravi Kumar was at the heart of consistent improvements shown by the Puneri Paltan defense and ended his season captaining his side against Bengaluru Bulls.

“I made him the captain today because of his consistency in his performances. He is a very special talent and has a very bright future,” Ashok Shinde added.

Aged just 22, Ravi Kumar, indeed, has a bright future ahead of him and with a coach and mentor like Ashok Shinde with him, he will continue to blossom the way he has done.

“I have a great coach and great teammates. My experience of playing in the Pro Kabaddi League has been excellent and I look forward to being a part of Puneri Paltan once again next season,” said Ravi Kumar in response to his coach’s praise.