The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) continues to see records broken and legends made as U-Mumba captain Sunil Kumar achieved a remarkable milestone, completing 350 tackle points in PKL’s 11th season. Sunil’s landmark achievement took place in a high-intensity match against the Patna Pirates, where he only needed a single tackle to secure his place in kabaddi history.
This accomplishment places Sunil among an elite group of defenders, making him the seventh player in PKL history to cross the 350 tackle points threshold. Known for his agility and powerful tackles, Sunil has consistently proven his defensive prowess on the kabaddi mat. With this milestone, he joins kabaddi stalwarts like Fazal Atrachali, who leads the all-time list with an impressive 504 tackle points in 174 matches, and Surjit Singh, who has scored 410 tackle points over his career.
A Journey Through PKL Teams and Triumphs
Sunil Kumar’s journey in the PKL has seen him wear the jersey of multiple teams, showcasing his adaptability and leadership. In the 10th season, he captained the Jaipur Pink Panthers to victory, clinching the championship title. His stellar performance and leadership caught the attention of U-Mumba, who signed him at a high price during the recent auction. His journey from Jaipur to Mumbai underscores his immense value as a player and leader.
Nitesh Kumar’s Record Remains Unbroken
While Sunil Kumar achieved his 350th tackle point, another iconic record remains unbroken in the PKL. Right corner specialist Nitesh Kumar still holds the unmatched record of 100 tackle points in a single PKL season. Although Iranian star Mahmadreza Shadlu came close last season, he was unable to surpass Nitesh’s feat, leaving this record as a testament to Nitesh’s defensive skills.
Other Kabaddi Defenders in the 350-Point Club
The PKL has seen many legendary defenders over the years, and Sunil Kumar’s entry into the 350-tackle point club adds another highlight to the league’s history. Here’s a closer look at the players with the most tackle points in PKL:
- Fazal Atrachali: Leading the pack with 504 tackle points in 174 matches, Fazal Atrachali, often called the “Sultan” of defense, continues to dominate the game with unmatched skills.
- Surjit Singh: Known as a right cover specialist, Surjit Singh is in second place with 410 tackle points in 154 games.
- Manjeet Chillar: A kabaddi legend in his own right, Manjeet ranks third with 391 points in just 132 games.
- Girish Ernak: With 362 tackle points in 147 matches, Girish holds fourth place.
- Nitesh Kumar: Known for his powerful right corner tackles, Nitesh stands sixth, having scored 361 tackle points in 134 matches.
The Rise of Kabaddi’s Defensive Stars
The Pro Kabaddi League has brought defensive talents into the spotlight, with defenders like Sunil Kumar, Fazal Atrachali, and Nitesh Kumar setting high standards and inspiring young players. Sunil’s achievement with U-Mumba is not just a personal milestone but also a boost for the team as they aim to make an impact this season.
With each match, PKL fans can expect more record-breaking performances from defenders who push the limits of the sport. Sunil Kumar’s achievement is a reminder of the league’s competitive spirit and the dedication of players who continue to bring excitement to kabaddi fans across the globe.
As the season progresses, the Pro Kabaddi League will undoubtedly witness more memorable moments, with defenders stepping up to showcase their skills. For Sunil Kumar and the elite defenders of PKL, the journey to greatness continues, match by match.
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