UP Yoddhas Aim for a Playoff Comeback in PKL Season 11

Following an underwhelming campaign in the last edition of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), the UP Yoddhas are keen to re-establish themselves as a dominant force in Season 11. The team has consistently performed well since its inception, having reached the playoffs five times in its six seasons of participation. However, their disappointing league stage exit last season serves as a motivation to bounce back stronger in the 2024-25 season.

With head coach Jasveer Singh returning to guide the team, the Yoddhas are poised to reclaim their status as playoff contenders. Coach Singh, who has been with the UP Yoddhas since Season 6, brings a wealth of experience and tactical know-how. The team’s management made strategic moves during the PKL Season 11 Player Auction, with the standout signing of Bharat for an impressive ₹1.30 crore. This investment reflects the Yoddhas' commitment to strengthening their squad and addressing the gaps that cost them dearly last season.

Strengths: A Formidable Raiding Unit

One of the key strengths of the UP Yoddhas heading into PKL Season 11 is their raiding prowess. The team boasts a lineup of top-tier raiders who are expected to lead from the front. Surender Gill and Bharat are the team’s spearheads in attack, both of whom have established themselves as elite raiders in the league. Surender Gill has accumulated an impressive 487 raid points, while Bharat, who was a major signing for the Yoddhas this season, has 497 raid points to his name. These two raiders form a formidable duo, capable of breaching even the toughest defenses.

Additionally, Gagana Gowda, who had a stellar debut season with the Yoddhas in PKL 10, adds further depth to the raiding unit. Gowda managed to score 92 raid points in his debut season, showcasing his potential to evolve into a key player for the Yoddhas in the upcoming campaign.

Beyond these star performers, the Yoddhas’ raiding department is bolstered by several other talented players. Bhavani Rajput, who has scored over 150 raid points in the league, provides another attacking option. The team also benefits from the skills of Iranian raider Heidarali Ekrami, as well as domestic talents like Shivam Chaudhary, Keshav Kumar, and Aksham Suryawanshi. This depth in the raiding unit ensures that the Yoddhas can rotate players and maintain a high level of attacking intensity throughout the season.

Weaknesses: Defensive Inconsistencies

While the Yoddhas' attacking lineup is among the strongest in the league, their defense remains an area of concern. Defensive lapses were one of the primary reasons for the team’s struggles last season, and addressing these issues will be crucial if the Yoddhas are to succeed in PKL 11. The team has seasoned defenders, but their performances have been inconsistent in recent seasons.

Sumit, the Yoddhas’ most reliable defender, has amassed 254 tackle points in the PKL and is expected to anchor the defense once again. However, he cannot do it alone. The supporting defenders, including Mahender Singh, Ashu Singh, and Sahul Kumar, need to step up and deliver more consistent performances.

Ashu Singh, in particular, had a disappointing showing last season, managing only 20 tackle points. Mahender Singh and Sahul Kumar also had their lowest defensive returns in a single PKL season, scoring 31 and 39 tackle points, respectively, in PKL 10. These numbers reflect the struggles the Yoddhas faced defensively, and all three players will need to improve if the team is to mount a serious challenge for the title.

The key to the Yoddhas’ success in Season 11 will be their ability to produce solid defensive displays consistently. While their raiders are capable of putting up big scores, the defense must ensure that they don’t concede too many points, especially in high-pressure situations.

Opportunities: A Chance for New Leaders to Emerge

PKL Season 11 presents several opportunities for the Yoddhas to turn things around and showcase their potential. One of the most significant opportunities lies in the hands of Surender Gill. For the past few seasons, Surender has played a secondary role in the team’s attack, often operating in the shadow of Pardeep Narwal. However, with Pardeep no longer part of the Yoddhas, Surender now has the chance to step into the spotlight and lead the team’s raiding efforts.

With nearly 500 raid points to his name in his PKL career, Surender has proven that he has the skills to be a top raider. PKL Season 11 could be the platform where he cements his status as the Yoddhas’ primary raider and enjoys his best individual season yet. This opportunity for leadership could also see him grow as a player, contributing not only with his raids but also with his ability to guide younger players in the squad.

Defensively, the upcoming season also offers redemption opportunities for Mahender Singh, Ashu Singh, and Sahul Kumar. All three players had subpar performances in PKL 10, but Season 11 gives them a chance to bounce back and prove their worth. If they can return to form, the Yoddhas’ defense could become a formidable unit capable of complementing their strong raiding lineup.

Threats: Fitness Concerns Loom Large

One of the biggest threats facing the UP Yoddhas as they head into PKL Season 11 is the fitness of star raider Surender Gill. While Surender has been exceptional when fit, injuries have plagued him in the past two seasons. In PKL 9, he managed 140 raid points in just 14 matches, while in PKL 10, he recorded 87 raid points in 10 games. These statistics demonstrate his impact when on the mat, but they also highlight the concern around his availability.

If Surender can stay fit for the entirety of the season, the Yoddhas will have a far better chance of reaching the playoffs. However, any further injury setbacks could derail their campaign, as Surender is a critical part of their offensive strategy. Managing his fitness and ensuring that he is in top condition for the key matches will be essential for the team’s success.

The UP Yoddhas have their sights set on a playoff return in PKL Season 11. With a strong raiding unit led by Surender Gill and Bharat, coupled with the potential for defensive improvements, the Yoddhas are well-positioned to make a strong comeback. However, their success will largely depend on maintaining consistent performances, especially in defense, and ensuring that their key players remain fit throughout the season.

As one of the more consistent teams in PKL history, the Yoddhas will be determined to put their previous campaign’s disappointment behind them and aim for a deep playoff run. Fans will be watching closely as the team embarks on its journey to reclaim its spot among the league’s elite.