HOME SUPPORT AND FAN BACKING ARE THE BIGGEST REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS IN KABADDI”: BENGAL WARRIORZ COACH NAVEEN KUMAR_
Speaking exclusively during the PKL Season 12 Media Day, Bengal Warriorz coach Naveen Kumar spoke about gearing up for yet another thrilling season of PKL:*
_”We have built a young team and included quite a few new players this season. We have assessed and scouted players from different places, and also added a few experienced names to balance the squad. We bought Devank Dalal at a high price, and he will be an important player for us along with the youngsters. We are working on the mistakes we made last season, using our training, tactics, and techniques to improve. Last time, our defence was strong, but our raiding unit was a little weak. This season, we have strengthened our raiding unit as well. The team will definitely do well, and we are determined to achieve what we could not in the last four years.”_
*On how kabaddi has changed over the years:*
_”Earlier, it used to be necessary to play for the national team or a Government department team to compete at a higher level. But now, there’s no need to go anywhere. Academies, teams, and organizations scout players directly from their home grounds, local tournaments, or national competitions, whether junior or senior. Management and coaches keep an eye on these tournaments to spot talent for the NYP (New Young Player) category. When new players arrive in the PKL, it takes a little time to adjust. Some exceptionally talented players come in and immediately make a name for themselves, while others gradually settle in and build their careers.”_
*On the importance of fans:*
_”This game depends a lot on the fans. The more support a player and team receive, the more motivated they become. A player can only perform at his best when his fans are with him, cheering and motivating him. Performance is not just about what happens on the mat; without the encouragement of fans, a player cannot give his 100 percent. Home support and fan backing are the biggest requirements for success in this sport.”_
*On PKL as an influential platform to promote kabaddi:*
_”PKL has changed a lot and taken kabaddi to the next level. It has given our players recognition and fame. PKL has transformed the sport from the soil (mitti) to the mat. Today, everyone in the country recognizes kabaddi and its teams. Earlier, the sport was not as popular on TV or social media, but now every local, national, junior, senior, or international tournament is covered. This reach is because of PKL. Today, every citizen in the country knows Kabaddi players, and that is a huge change.”_
_Catch all the action from the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12, August 29 onwards, LIVE & Exclusive on JioHotstar and the Star Sports Network_
