The Hyderabad leg of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 has just concluded, and the biggest story to emerge is the remarkable resurgence of the Telugu Titans. After years of underperformance, the Titans currently sit second in the PKL standings, having notched four consecutive wins for the first time since Season 5. The catalyst for their turnaround? None other than kabaddi superstar Pawan Sehrawat.
Pawan Powers Titans’ Charge
Sehrawat, who joined the Titans ahead of this season, has been in scintillating form. The “High-flyer” has amassed 91 points already, the second-highest tally in PKL 11. But it’s not just his raiding prowess that has made the difference. Pawan has also contributed in defense, showcasing his all-round abilities.
According to a team insider, Pawan’s impact goes beyond just his on-mat heroics. “He has brought a winning mentality to the team,” the source revealed. “His experience and leadership have rubbed off on the younger players. They believe they can beat anyone now.”
“I am enjoying my new role in the team. We have gelled well as a unit and the results are showing on the mat. However, we must stay focused and continue this momentum. The season is long and the ultimate goal is to win the trophy.”
– Pawan Sehrawat on the Titans’ resurgence
Titans’ Defensive Concerns
While the Titans are flying high, coach Krishan Kumar Hooda knows there are areas to improve, particularly in defense. The Titans have conceded the most all-outs and have the second-worst tackle points tally this season. Strengthening the defense could be key to sustaining their success.
Puneri Paltan Set the Pace
Despite the Titans’ heroics, it’s the defending champions Puneri Paltan who continue to set the gold standard. The Paltan lead the standings and look like the team to beat once again. Defenders Gaurav Khatri, along with the raiding trio of Aslam Inamdar, Mohit Goyat and Ajinkya Pawar have ensured Pune haven’t missed a beat despite the departure of Mohammadreza Shadloui.
The Best of the Rest
U Mumba have been the surprise package, putting their faith in youth. Raider Ajith Kumar and skipper Surinder Singh have led from the front. The Mumba are third and primed for a playoff charge.
The Patna Pirates boast the league’s best attacking stats but find themselves in mid-table. The Bengal Warriors have been inconsistent despite match-winners Maninder Singh and Fazel Atrachali, with the Iranian becoming the first player to cross 500 tackle points.
The Jaipur Pink Panthers’ Arjun Deshwal became the second fastest to 1000 raid points, but his team blows hot and cold. The UP Yoddhas, Gujarat Giants and Bengaluru Bulls bring up the rear, with the Giants looking destined for the wooden spoon.
| Teams | Position | Assessment |
| Puneri Paltan | 1st | Defending champions living up to billing |
| Telugu Titans | 2nd | Pawan-inspired resurgence |
| U Mumba | 3rd | Banking on youth, Ajith shines |
| Patna Pirates | 6th | Impressive attack, inconsistent results |
| Bengal Warriors | 5th | Maninder, Fazel impress but team stutters |
As the PKL caravan rolls on, the Hyderabad leg has set the stage for a captivating season ahead. Will the Pawan-led Titans continue their fairytale run? Can Puneri Paltan defend their title? Or will a new challenger emerge from the chasing pack? The answers will unfold in the coming weeks as the ultimate kabaddi show entertains millions.
