Page 6 - Sportskeeda's Indian Sportsperson of the Year 2016

Sportskeeda's Indian Sportsperson of the Year 2016 – No. 15 to No. 6

Modified Dec 30, 2016 10:59 IST

DOHA, QATAR - DECEMBER 05: Pankaj Arjan Advani of India poses after claiming the Gold Medal in the Men's English Billiards Singles Final match against Ashok Harishankar Shandil Ya of India during day five of the 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 at Al Sadd Sports Complex on December 5, 2006 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images for DAGOC) — *Pankaj Advani won his 12th World Billiards Championship*

#10 Ajay Thakur

*Ajay Thakur was the key player in India’s successful run at the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup*

Ajay Thakur proved yet again that he is the man for the big occasion. 2016 definitely saw the resurgence of the tall, lanky raider. Those who have seen the man in action at the Kabaddi World Cup would attest to this.

Thakur’s performance at the Pro Kabaddi League did not really live up to his reputation. He managed to score only 63 points in the league and ended as the 11^th most successful raider of Season 4. He mainly played second fiddle to Deepak Niwas as his team Puneri Paltan crashed out in the semi-finals.

However, he did make it to the World Cup squad where he proved his mettle. He was selected for his experience and legacy and justified his selection. In the national colours, Ajay was an all-together different player.

He finished as the best raider scoring 64 raid points in seven matches in the World Cup as India lifted the trophy. With 5 Super 10’s, including one in the final match he scripted a fantastic comeback and finds his name in the 10^th spot.

Edited by Staff Editor