Pro Kabaddi League 2018: 5 reasons why Gujarat Fortune Giants could win the title

#4 Spirited young defenders could bring in a surprise element

Defender Sunil Kumar is the captain this time

Having let go of Fazel Atrachali and Abozar Mighani, Team Gujarat’s defence might look slightly weaker this time on paper. But they are definitely not to be underestimated in terms of their defensive capabilities.

They have retained their left cover defender Parvesh Bhainswal from last season and he could be a real difference-maker. He already proved his skills last season with 48 points from 24 matches and would be eager to do more, now that he is one of their most reliable defenders.

Sunil Kumar has been given the responsibility of leading the charge for the Fortune Giants this time. And he would like to do justice to that role by performing on the mat with gusto. Last season, the right cover defender amassed 58 points from 24 matches, and he would surely like to continue in the same vein.

Gujarat’s success was built around its robust defence last season. Manpreet Singh thus would have to ensure that they do not fail in that department even after losing their star Iranian duo. The team has a plethora of young talent in defence who could step up to the challenge and do the job.

The youngsters could also bring in a surprise element for which other teams might not be prepared. Manpreet has a knack for motivating youngsters and grooming them into champions and he could just bring out the best from the likes of Sachin Vittala, Ruturaj Koravi, Amit Jaivir Sharma, Vikram Kandola.