PKL 12: Top 5 Defenders to Watch From Patna Pirates in Pro Kabaddi League Season 12

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 is set to bring exciting action, and the Patna Pirates, one of the most successful teams in PKL history, are ready to shine. Known for their strong defense, the Pirates have built a powerful squad for PKL 12. The top five defenders to watch from Patna Pirates in Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 are Ankit Jaglan, Deepak Singh, Sanket Sawant, Sombir Gulia, and Navdeep.

The Patna Pirates are a powerhouse in the Pro Kabaddi League, having won three titles in a row from 2016 to 2017, in PKL Season 3, 4, and 6 . In PKL Season 11, they reached the final but lost to the Haryana Steelers. However, their defensive strength was a key factor in their success, with players like Ankit Jaglan leading the charge. For PKL 12, the Pirates have retained their core defenders and added new talent to strengthen their squad. 

1. Ankit Jaglan

Ankit Jaglan is a name to watch among the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders. As the team’s captain, he led the Pirates to the PKL 11 final, finishing as the second-best defender in the league with 79 tackle points in 25 matches. His stats include eight super tackles and four High 5s, showing his consistency. For example, in PKL 10, he scored 66 tackle points, proving his reliability at the left corner. The Pirates used their Final Bid Match (FBM) card to retain him for PKL 12 at ₹1.573 crore, a sign of his importance. Ankit’s leadership and tackling skills make him a cornerstone of the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders.

2. Deepak Singh

Deepak Singh is another key player among the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders. Playing at right cover, he surprised many in PKL 11 with 64 tackle points in 25 matches, including four High 5s and one super tackle. Additionally, he contributed 12 raid points, showing his all-round ability. The Pirates retained him for ₹86 lakhs using the FBM card for two seasons, highlighting their trust in him. His quiet yet effective style makes him a vital part of the defense. Deepak Singh’s versatility strengthens the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders.

3. Sanket Sawant

Sanket Sawant, a new addition to the Pirates for PKL 12, brings experience to the squad. Previously with Puneri Paltan for five seasons, he has 122 tackle points in 95 matches, with a tackle strike rate of 37%. In PKL 11, he earned 27 tackle points in 21 matches. The Pirates signed him for ₹40.50 lakhs, valuing his ability to handle tough raiders. His left-cover defending complements the team’s strategy. Consequently, Sanket Sawant is a strong addition to the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders, bringing stability to the unit.

4. Sombir Gulia

Sombir Gulia is a young talent among the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders. Signed for ₹13 lakhs in the PKL 12 auction, he adds speed and agility to the team. As an Existing New Young Player (NYP), Sombir has shown promise in previous seasons with U Mumba, where he was part of a solid defensive unit. His quick tackles and ability to support teammates make him a player to watch. Moreover, his youth brings energy to the Pirates’ defense. Thus, Sombir Gulia’s potential makes him a key part of the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders.

5. Navdeep

Navdeep, another young star among the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders, was retained as an Existing New Young Player (NYP). Known for his quick reflexes, Navdeep has been a consistent performer for the Pirates. For example, his ability to execute super tackles in crucial moments adds value to the team. His energy pairs well with the experience of players like Ankit and Sanket, creating a balanced defense. Additionally, Navdeep’s growth in recent seasons shows his potential to shine in PKL 12. Therefore, Navdeep’s dynamic play strengthens the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders.

The strength of the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders lies in their teamwork. Ankit Jaglan anchors the left corner, directing the unit with his experience. Meanwhile, Deepak Singh and Sanket Sawant hold the right and left cover positions, using their skills to stop raiders early. Furthermore, Sombir Gulia and Navdeep add speed, covering gaps and supporting their teammates. For instance, in PKL 11, the Pirates’ defense worked together to limit top raiders, with Ankit and Deepak combining for multiple High 5s. As a result, this group’s coordination makes the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders a tough challenge for opponents.

Head coach Anup Kumar, a former PKL champion, plays a big role in shaping the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders. His experience as a player helps him guide the team’s strategy. He focuses on building trust between young and experienced defenders, ensuring they work as a unit. Additionally, his tactics focus on quick decision-making and strong communication on the mat. Consequently, Anup Kumar’s coaching enhances the performance of the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders, making them a well-organized group.

The Pirates’ defensive strategy for PKL 12 revolves around balance. Ankit Jaglan’s leadership sets the tone, while Deepak Singh’s versatility allows the team to adapt to different raiding styles. Moreover, Sanket Sawant’s experience helps counter aggressive raiders, and Sombir Gulia’s speed disrupts opponents’ plans. Navdeep’s quick tackles add an extra layer of defense. For instance, in PKL 11, the Pirates used a mix of aggressive tackles and smart positioning to stop top raiders like Pawan Sehrawat. As a result, the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders are well-prepared to face any challenge.

The PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders stand out because of their unique combination of skills. Ankit Jaglan’s consistency, Deepak Singh’s all-round ability, Sanket Sawant’s experience, Sombir Gulia’s potential, and Navdeep’s energy create a complete package. Additionally, their ability to work together makes them hard to beat. Their performance in the PKL 11 final showed their strength, even in defeat. 

In the Pro Kabaddi League, a strong defense is crucial for success. The PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders are built to stop even the best raiders, like Naveen Kumar or Arjun Deshwal. Their ability to execute super tackles and High 5s can change the game’s outcome. Moreover, their teamwork allows them to cover each other’s weaknesses. As a result, the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders are a vital part of the team’s strategy for Pro Kabaddi League Season 12.

FAQs About PKL 12 Patna Pirates Defenders

1. Who are the top defenders for Patna Pirates in PKL 12?
The top PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders are Ankit Jaglan, Deepak Singh, Sanket Sawant, Sombir Gulia, and Navdeep.

2. Why is Ankit Jaglan important to the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders?
Ankit Jaglan is the captain and a top defender, with 79 tackle points in PKL 11, making him a leader for the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders.

3. How does the youth-experience mix help the PKL 12 Patna Pirates defenders?
The blend of young players like Navdeep and Sombir Gulia with experienced defenders like Ankit Jaglan and Sanket Sawant creates a balanced and adaptable defense for PKL 12.