“Pankaj said he wanted to leave captaincy, Akash was announced” - BC Ramesh reveals captaincy juggle at Puneri Paltan, was unaware of change made

In what seems to be a chaotic turn of events within the Puneri Paltan camp, a revelation from their now ex-head coach BC Ramesh has brought to light the disarray in the team’s management. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sportskeeda on December 2, Ramesh candidly shared that the decision to appoint Akash Shinde as captain was made without his knowledge, sparking questions about the internal dynamics of the defending champions.

The move, reportedly made by someone in the management, has added to the challenges faced by the Paltan in Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) season 11.

The Puneri Paltan started the season as strong title contenders, boasting a balanced team under skipper Aslam Inamdar. However, the tide turned in their sixth match when Aslam suffered a season-ending injury against the U Mumba. His absence created a vacuum in leadership, leading to Pankaj Mohite taking over the reins.

Despite Pankaj's efforts, the team managed only two wins in eight matches under his captaincy. The mounting pressure led to Pankaj stepping down, citing his inability to handle the dual responsibility of captaincy and raiding.

“We never intended to change Pankaj Mohite. He was in the main seven and was also the vice-captain. After Aslam’s injury, we brought Akash Shinde into the lineup. However, Pankaj felt that the added responsibility of captaincy was putting too much pressure on him. He came to us and said that he wanted to step down as captain because it was affecting his game,” Ramesh explained.

Surprisingly, the decision to appoint Akash Shinde as captain was made without Ramesh’s input. BC Ramesh was left in the dark about this captaincy shuffle.

“At that time, someone from the management announced Akash Shinde as the captain," he continued.

“Once a captain is announced, it’s my responsibility to ensure he understands expectations. But I’m not sure who made the call to announce Akash as captain after Pankaj stepped down. Someone from management must have thought about it and made the decision. He announced it himself," Ramesh added.

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BC Ramesh removed as head coach right after Puneri Paltan’s loss against U Mumba

\Akash Shinde initially impressed with a Super 10 in his first match as captain, helping Pune edge out Gujarat 34-33. However, his next outing ended in a humiliating 29-43 loss to U Mumba in front of their home fans on December 3.

Adding to the drama, the very next day, on December 4, BC Ramesh was removed as the head coach and reassigned as the Team Advisor. The decision has left many wondering if the internal turmoil within the team has derailed their season.

Currently, Pune stands seventh on the points table with seven wins, six losses, and three ties from 16 matches.

Despite their struggles, Ramesh remains optimistic about the team’s potential.

“Qualifying for the playoffs is very important, and finishing in the top two is equally crucial. Right now, our team is in a position where we are fighting just to qualify,” BC Ramesh said.

Ramesh emphasized accountability and teamwork as the key to turning their fortunes around.

“I’ve played kabaddi for so many years, and I know the talent and playing style of each and every player. If the boys want to perform well and make the team champions, they have to take ownership. They should know their mistakes and work on them themselves. Our team has skilled raiders and defenders; there’s no lack of talent in this squad,” he added.

BC Ramesh has great credentials, having previously helped the Bengaluru Bulls to the PKL 6 title as an assistant coach and the Bengal Warriorz to the PKL 7 title as head coach, followed by guiding the Puneri Paltan to the PKL 10 title.

“Improving oneself is a big task. I’ve been working for many years, and I’ve always kept any team I’ve coached in the first or second position. During the coaching camp, I taught them everything thoroughly, and I’m confident they can apply those lessons. It’s now up to them to perform and prove themselves,” BC Ramesh stated.