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The curtains came down on Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 11 on December 29, 2024, with the Haryana Steelers scripting history at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune. By defeating three-time champions Patna Pirates, the Steelers claimed their maiden PKL title, capping off what was an electrifying season.
Throughout the league, fans witnessed a showcase of talent and match-winning performances. Some players carved a special niche for themselves, leaving an indelible mark on the tournament. As we reflect on the season, it’s time to honor those exceptional performers who would make up the Team of the Tournament for PKL 2024.
Raiders
For this season’s Team of the Tournament, we’ve opted for two specialist raiders, Devank Dalal and Ashu Malik. Both right raiders, they delivered exceptional performances throughout PKL 11.
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Devank Dalal, the standout raider of the season, clinched the Green Sleeve by scoring 301 raid points in 25 games at an average of 12.04 points per match, with 18 Super 10s. The young star was instrumental in Patna Pirates’ journey to the final.
Ashu Malik followed closely, finishing second in the list of most raid points with 262 raid points in 23 games, averaging 11.39 raid points per match, also with 18 Super 10s. He spearheaded Dabang Delhi KC’s campaign to the semi-finals and was the driving force behind their record-breaking 15-game unbeaten streak.
Traditionally, a playing 7 includes three raiders, but we’ve chosen to go with two specialists, a decision explained below.
All Rounder
Enter the show-stopper, Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh, from Iran. Shadloui played a pivotal role in the Haryana Steelers’ title-winning campaign. Not only was he a defensive powerhouse, topping the charts with 82 tackle points in 24 games at an average of 3.25 tackles per match, but he also contributed significantly in raiding with 57 raid points.
His ability to raid effectively, especially in two or three-man defensive setups, makes him a dual threat. This unique versatility is why the team includes only two specialist raiders, with Shadloui serving as a third raider while also being the lead defender in the left corner.
Defenders
Having Shadloui on the left corner allows room for an additional defender. Supporting him at the right corner is Yogesh Dahiya, the Emerging Player of the previous season. Yogesh delivered another impressive performance with 75 tackle points in 22 games, averaging 2.95 tackles per match and securing 5 High 5s. He was a key player for Dabang Delhi KC.
The cover positions are manned by Sunil Kumar on the right and Reza on the left. Sunil, PKL’s most successful captain, led U Mumba to the playoffs after three seasons and also delivered defensively with 54 tackle points in 23 games, the most for his team. Meanwhile, Jaipur Pink Panthers’ Reza emerged as the top-performing left cover with 58 tackle points in 23 games.
The final defensive spot goes to Nitesh Kumar, the Defender of the Tournament. Traditionally a left corner, Nitesh was versatile by exceling in various defensive positions for Tamil Thalaivas. He ended the season with 77 tackle points in 22 games, averaging 3.5 tackle points per match, with eight High 5s, the highest by any defender.
Nitesh will primarily take the left corner position in our team but can rotate roles based on the situation, allowing Shadloui more opportunities to raid.
Substitutes
The bench comprises players who were equally instrumental for their teams this season.
Among the raiders, Arjun Deshwal deserves a spot for his consistent performances, scoring 227 raid points in 23 matches. Joining him is Ayan Lohchab, the Emerging Player of the Season, who impressed with 184 raid points in 25 games for Patna Pirates. Another young talent, Ajit Chouhan, had a breakthrough season for U Mumba, finishing with 185 raid points in 23 games.
In defense, Hitesh from UP Yoddhas, who claimed 74 tackle points in 23 matches, takes the right corner spot on the bench. Deepak Singh of Patna Pirates, with 64 tackle points in 25 games, earns his place as a substitute defender at the right cover. Rounding off the bench is Jaideep Dahiya, the young captain who led Haryana Steelers to their first title with excellent leadership and strong defensive performances.
Coach
The coach of the team of the tournament is Manpreet Singh. After enduring heartbreak in the final on three previous occasions, Manpreet finally guided the Haryana Steelers to their maiden title.
Pro Kabaddi 2024 Team of the Tournament
Playing 7: Devank Dalal, Ashu Malik, Sunil Kumar (C), Reza, Nitesh Kumar, Yogesh Dahiya, Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh
Bench: Arjun Deshwal, Ajit Chouhan, Ayan Lohchab, Hitesh, Deepak, Jaideep Dahiya, Vijay Malik
Coach: Manpreet Singh
