As the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) gears up for its electrifying 11th season, kicking off on October 18, 2024, in Hyderabad, the spotlight is not only on the players but also on the head coaches who play a pivotal role in shaping team success. The coaches, often working behind the scenes, have been instrumental in building strategies and nurturing talent to create winning teams. Here’s a look at the head coaches of the 12 PKL teams for the upcoming season:
Bengal Warriors: Prashant Surve Prashant Surve, previously the assistant coach for Bengal Warriors, has been promoted to head coach for Season 11. As a part of the franchise since Season 9, Prashant is set to bring fresh strategies to the Kolkata-based team after the departure of former head coach K Baskaran.
Bengaluru Bulls: Randhir Singh Sehrawat A stalwart in PKL, Randhir Singh Sehrawat is the longest-serving coach in the league. Known for his leadership and experience, Randhir led Bengaluru Bulls to their first PKL title in Season 6 and returns to guide the team once again with the hope of reclaiming glory.
Dabang Delhi KC: Joginder Narwal Former captain and now head coach, Joginder Narwal steps into the coaching role for Dabang Delhi KC. A key figure in Delhi’s PKL triumph in 2018, Joginder is ready to guide the team toward success once more.
Gujarat Giants: Ram Mehar Singh Ram Mehar Singh, a veteran coach with a stellar track record, returns as the head coach of Gujarat Giants. After leading Patna Pirates to title glory in Season 5, Singh aims to bring his winning mentality to Gujarat, where he has been a key figure since Season 9.
Haryana Steelers: Manpreet Singh Manpreet Singh, a former PKL champion with Patna Pirates, continues his role as the head coach of Haryana Steelers. After a solid performance in Season 10, Manpreet will be aiming to elevate the team’s performance to the next level.
Jaipur Pink Panthers: Sanjeev Baliyan After steering Jaipur Pink Panthers to a PKL title in Season 9, Sanjeev Baliyan remains at the helm for another season. Baliyan is known for his ability to bring out the best in his players, and the Panthers are looking forward to another strong season under his guidance.
Patna Pirates: Narender Redhu Narender Redhu, who joined the Pirates in Season 10, is back as the head coach. With a wealth of international coaching experience, Redhu aims to guide the team to another title victory.
Puneri Paltan: BC Ramesh BC Ramesh returns to lead Puneri Paltan after clinching their first-ever PKL title in Season 10. A highly respected coach with multiple PKL titles, Ramesh has the experience and vision to ensure continued success for Puneri Paltan.
Tamil Thalaivas: Udaya Kumar and Dharmaraj Cheralathan Tamil Thalaivas bring a unique dual-coach system for Season 11, with Udaya Kumar and Dharmaraj Cheralathan taking charge. With Udaya’s experience in coaching the Indian kabaddi team and Cheralathan’s strategic insight, the Thalaivas are ready for a fresh start.
Telugu Titans: Krishan Kumar Hooda After several disappointing seasons, Telugu Titans have brought in Krishan Kumar Hooda as their new head coach. Hooda, who led Dabang Delhi KC to a title in Season 8, will be looking to reverse the Titans’ fortunes in Season 11.
U Mumba: Gholamreza Mazandarani Returning for another stint as U Mumba’s head coach, Gholamreza Mazandarani brings international coaching experience and tactical expertise. Mazandarani will be hoping to steer the Mumboys back to the top.
UP Yoddhas: Jasveer Singh Jasveer Singh continues as the head coach of UP Yoddhas for Season 11. Known for his disciplined coaching style, Jasveer will aim to improve on the Yoddhas’ previous performances and lead them to success.
As the 11th season of the Pro Kabaddi League approaches, fans can expect thrilling action not just from the players on the mat but also from the masterminds in the coaching box. Each coach brings unique experience and strategy to their team, making this season one of the most anticipated yet.
