Top 10 Defenders of PKL 12: Complete Analysis After Match 82
The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 has reached match number 82, and the defensive battles have been intense throughout the tournament. The top 10 defenders of PKL 12 have shown remarkable skills with their tackling abilities and defensive strategies. These defenders have earned their positions through consistent performances and high tackle point tallies.
Nitesh Kumar Leads the Defense Rankings
Nitesh Kumar from Tamil Thalaivas sits at the top position among the top defenders of PKL 12 with an impressive 53 tackle points from 14 matches. The defender has maintained an average of 3.79 tackle points per match, which showcases his consistency throughout the season. Nitesh Kumar has completed 51 successful tackles, making him the most effective defender in PKL Season 12.
The Tamil Thalaivas defender has been named Defender of the Day multiple times during PKL 12. His alertness and strength have made him a crucial part of the Thalaivas defensive unit. Nitesh Kumar’s performance includes five High 5s, which demonstrates his ability to achieve multiple successful tackles in single matches.
Throughout his PKL career, Nitesh Kumar has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders. He currently ranks fourth in the all-time tackle points list with 421 tackle points from 159 matches across all seasons. His experience and defensive skills have helped Tamil Thalaivas compete strongly in PKL 12.
Jaideep Dahiya Holds Second Position
Jaideep Kuldeep Dahiya from Haryana Steelers occupies the second spot with 48 tackle points from 14 matches played. The defender has achieved a tackle strike rate of 62% and has been instrumental in Haryana Steelers’ defensive strategies. His performance includes 10 Super Tackles, which is the highest among all defenders in PKL 12.
The Haryana Steelers captain has earned 51 total points this season, combining his tackle points with bonus points. Jaideep has also recorded five High 5s during PKL Season 12, showing his ability to dominate matches defensively. His leadership qualities have been evident as he guides the defending champions through their campaign.
Jaideep Kuldeep Dahiya made his PKL debut in Season 8 and has consistently improved his performance each year. The 22-year-old defender from Sisana, Haryana, has become one of the most dependable left-cover defenders in the league. His aggressive tackling style and precise timing have made him a key player for the Steelers.
Tied at Third: Saurabh Nandal and Deepak Sankar
Both Saurabh Nandal and Deepak Sankar share the third position with 45 tackle points each in PKL Season 12. However, their match statistics differ significantly in terms of games played and consistency.
Saurabh Nandal from Dabang Delhi has played 15 matches to achieve his 45 tackle points. The defender has completed 43 successful tackles and maintains an average of 3.0 tackle points per match. His partnership with Fazel Atrachali in the Delhi defense has been crucial for the team’s success this season.
Deepak Sankar has reached 45 tackle points in just 13 matches, giving him a higher average of 3.46 tackle points per match. His efficiency in fewer matches shows his impact when present on the mat. Deepak has also recorded four High 5s and four Super Tackles during PKL 12.
Fazel Atrachali Brings Experience to Fifth Place
The Iranian defender Fazel Atrachali holds the fifth position with 44 tackle points from 15 matches for Dabang Delhi. The veteran defender celebrated his 200th PKL match during Season 12, marking a significant milestone in his career. Atrachali has completed 44 successful tackles and maintains strong defensive consistency.
Fazel Atrachali holds the record for most tackle points in PKL history with 589 tackle points from 203 matches across all seasons. The 33-year-old defender has won the Best Defender award twice in his PKL career. His experience and leadership have been valuable assets for Dabang Delhi throughout PKL Season 12.
The Iranian captain has been named Defender of the Day several times during the current season. His Super Raid performance in a tie-breaker against Haryana Steelers showcased his all-round abilities beyond just defensive skills. Atrachali’s presence has strengthened Delhi’s defensive unit significantly.
Gaurav Khatri Completes the Top Six
Gaurav Khatri sits in sixth position among the top defenders of PKL 12 with 43 tackle points from 15 matches. His consistent performance throughout the season has helped his team maintain strong defensive standards. Khatri has shown good tackling abilities and has contributed regularly to his team’s defensive efforts.
The defender has maintained a decent average and has been reliable in crucial moments during matches. His 40 successful tackles demonstrate his effectiveness in stopping opposing raiders. Gaurav Khatri’s steady performance has made him an important part of his team’s defensive setup.
Shared Seventh Position: Sumit Sangwan and Yogesh Dahiya
Both Sumit Sangwan and Yogesh Bijender Dahiya occupy the seventh position with 40 tackle points each from 14 matches. These defenders have shown similar consistency levels throughout PKL Season 12.
Sumit Sangwan has been a dependable presence in defense with his 39 successful tackles. His performance has helped his team maintain competitive defensive standards. Sangwan has career statistics of 366 tackle points from 126 matches across all PKL seasons, ranking seventh in all-time tackle points.
Yogesh Bijender Dahiya has also contributed significantly with his defensive skills during PKL 12. The defender has shown good tackling technique and has been consistent in his performances. His 40 tackle points from 14 matches represent a solid average for the season.
Joint Ninth Position: Sunil Kumar and Ashish Malik
The ninth position is shared by Sunil Kumar and Ashish Sahdev Malik, both with 39 tackle points in PKL Season 12. However, their match statistics show different playing patterns.
Sunil Kumar has played 14 matches to reach 39 tackle points, while maintaining his reputation as an experienced defender. He ranks third in all-time PKL tackle points with 429 points from 174 matches across all seasons. His vast experience has been valuable throughout PKL Season 12.
Ashish Sahdev Malik has achieved 39 tackle points from just 12 matches, giving him the highest average among the top 10 defenders at 3.25 tackle points per match. The Bengal Warriorz defender has recorded six High 5s, which is the joint-highest among all defenders this season. His efficiency in fewer matches shows his impact when playing.
Individual Achievements and Records
Several defenders among the top 10 have achieved significant milestones during PKL Season 12. Fazel Atrachali’s 200th PKL match was a notable celebration, marking his long career in the league. His Super Raid performance in that milestone match showcased his complete skill set beyond defensive abilities.
Nitesh Kumar’s consistent performance has helped him maintain the top position throughout most of PKL Season 12. His five High 5s demonstrate his ability to dominate matches defensively. The Tamil Thalaivas defender has been recognized multiple times as Defender of the Day for his outstanding performances.
Jaideep Kuldeep Dahiya’s leadership as Haryana Steelers captain while maintaining high defensive standards has been remarkable. His 10 Super Tackles lead all defenders in this category. The defending champions have relied heavily on his defensive contributions throughout the season.
