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Two-time champions Jaipur Pink Panthers have released head coach Sanjeev Baliyan ahead of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12. The Panthers made this announcement via their social media handles on Sunday, January 5, 2025 a week after the conclusion of PKL 2024 that saw Haryana Steelers win the title.
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The Pink Panthers had a mixed campaign in PKL Season 11, finishing sixth in the league stage with 12 wins from 22 games. However, their season came to a dismal end with a 46-18 loss to UP Yoddhas in Eliminator 1, one of the most lopsided defeats in the PKL playoff.
In their statement, the Jaipur Pink Panthers acknowledged Baliyan’s contributions.
“Sanjeev Baliyan has been an integral part of our journey over the past four seasons. His expertise and dedication have been invaluable to the Jaipur Pink Panthers. Sanjeev will always remain a valued part of the Pink Panthers’ legacy, and we wish him continued success in his journey ahead,” read a statement from the Jaipur Pink Panthers’ management.
Sanjeev Baliyan’s journey with the Jaipur Pink Panthers in PKL
Sanjeev Baliyan joined the Jaipur Pink Panthers ahead of the PKL Season 8 auction and quickly made his presence felt. One of his most impactful moves was the acquisition of Arjun Deshwal during the Season 8 auction. This decision proved instrumental, as Deshwal became one of the team’s standout performers.
Under Baliyan’s guidance, the Panthers experienced a mix of highs and lows. They finished eighth in Season 8, but the groundwork laid that year culminated in a sensational title victory in Season 9, securing the franchise’s second PKL trophy.
The Panthers maintained strong performances in subsequent seasons, finishing second in the league stage of PKL Season 10 and qualifying for the playoffs. In Season 11, despite making the playoffs again, their sixth-place finish and subsequent elimination raised questions about their consistency. Over his four-season tenure, Baliyan led the team to three playoff appearances, including the coveted PKL Season 9 title, making his stint one of the most successful in the team’s history.
The decision to release Baliyan signals a possible strategic shift for the Jaipur Pink Panthers as they prepare for PKL Season 12. The team now faces the challenge of finding a new head coach who can bring fresh ideas and renewed energy to their campaign.
