2016 Kabaddi World Cup: Top 5 defenders from the group stage

#4 Takamitsu Kono (Japan)

Kono was exceptional as a corner for the Japanese team

Legend has it that Lord Buddha had himself played kabaddi, today in the 21^st century we have a Buddhist monk in Takamitsu Kono, following in his footsteps and representing Japan at the World Cup.

What’s more, he’s finished on the leaderboard with a total of 19 points to his name, emerging as a wall in the defence for his team. “I like the fact that the sport is all about team work. Personally, it has helped me build my personality,” Kono was quoted as saying to the Hindustan Times.

The Dabang Delhi player had the best game against the mighty Thailand in their last group encounter where he amassed 8 points, 4 of which had come of Super Tackles, a testament to his skills and defensive prowess.