Kabaddi is a traditional sport that has been around since ancient times and is popular in many parts of the world. One of the most important parts of the game is the defender, who often acts as a shield for the rest of their team. This isn’t an easy task and requires tremendous skill and precision. Nowadays there are some truly remarkable defenders who have mastered this part of the game. These are five of the very best Kabaddi defenders in the world today!
Ankush Rathee
The ninth season of Pro Kabaddi League had no shortage of star power, but it was the relative unknown Ankush Rathee who emerged as the top tackler on the show. After Jaipur made the bold call to pick him as their left corner instead of any more high-profile name, it was Rathee who made full use of his chance by religiously guarding his end and executing crunching tackles to devastating effect. His fearlessness and agility allowed him to become a menace to opposition raiders, who were often found wanting after tasting Rathee’s tackling prowess. In the end, he went on to make a massive name for himself off just one season in PKL.
In a show of utmost quality and skill, Ankush’s professional debut year in the Orange Armband tournament was nothing less than spectacular. Facing the legendary Iranian defender Mohammadreza Shadloui in a one-on-one combat, Ankush pulled off an incredible victory out of what was an extremely fierce match. In doing so, he became the first dynamic left-corner defender to win the prestigious Armband amongst his debut rivals. On top of that, Ankush also scored 89 tackle points, 9 High 5s and 5 Super Tackles in 24 appearances to equalize Shadloui’s record for the most number of tackle points in a debut season. To cap it off he scored 3 tackle points in the grand finale which made him the clear winner against his competition. Ultimately winning this tournament had been a remarkable journey for Ankush which he will never forget!
Mohammadreza Shadloui
Mohammadreza has had a brimming rise in the Pro Kabaddi League, proving himself to be one of the corner defenders to watch out for. Last season, Mohammadreza was the epitome of defensive stability and reliability which saw him win accolades big and small; from earning the prestigious Orange Armband to making history when he set the record for scoring the most number of tackle points ever in a debut campaign. Undoubtedly, this extraordinary achievement warranted much expectation ahead of this season. The Iranian left-corner defender will be expected to effectively channelize his ability and agility on the mat to keep up with his top-notch performance from before. With serious laurels and merits added to his name after last season’s success, Mohammadreza has no other choice but to put in his best effort this season too so as to make sure he stays ahead of his game.
Iranian defender, Shadloui, may have been away for some time due to Visa issues, but he was determined not to let his team down upon his return. Focused on his mission, Shadloui got back up to speed quickly and began showing off his immense talent as a defensive all-rounder. His competitiveness and relentlessness paid off and he managed to help the three-time champions break their winless streak of three games. This strength and resilience that Shadloui has clearly won him the admiration of his teammates who are fortunate that he is back with them again.
Saurabh Nandal
Nandal pulled off a remarkable feat in the tackle points leaderboard of the previous edition, finishing in third place for the second consecutive season. Though he had an impressive tally of 69 tackle points to his name last year, this time he was even better – clocking in at 72 by the end of the tournament. Despite heavy competition from other contenders, Nandal made sure his tackles saw him through to securing a place in the upper rankings. He truly showed how far dedication and skill can take you, turning heads with every single matchday he participated in throughout the competition. He will be back again next season, riveting fans and players alike as he takes the court to strive for his maiden title!
Saurabh is a Haryana-based right-corner defender who has consistently performed to the highest standard and as a result, established himself as one of the best defenders around the globe. He has been an integral part of the Bengaluru Bulls defense since making his debut and is now looked upon as one of their most reliable individuals. His outstanding performances have seen him promoted to vice captaincy responsibilities with Red and Blacks Army, a role which he has taken on with exemplary leadership and determination. His consistency on and off the field makes him a key member of any team he plays for, ensuring that there are few better that can be called upon for such defensive duties.
Sunil Kumar Malik
Sunil’s Kumar ascension to the captaincy of Pink Panthers was a momentous occasion in itself. Until then, they had been enduring a long wait of 8 years that seemed poised to carry on. But with Sunil at their helm things changed drastically as he was able to leverage his past experiences as Gujarat Fortunegiants’ skipper and bring about a successful turnaround for the Rajasthan-based franchise. His leadership prowess and tactical acumen enabled the team to finally reach the coveted PKL glory, something which all their fans have been longing for. It thus goes without saying that Sunil Kumar masterfully took Pink Panthers from the brink of mediocrity to champions and firmly established them as title contenders.
Sunil has cemented his name as one of the best players in the world through his recent victories. The 25-year-old South Asian Games gold medalist sustained further his golden form which he gained in the recently concluded Senior National Championship with the almighty Railways side. When his team needed him the most, the Jaipur captain stepped up and scored a magical High 5 on the Finale night to lead his boys to the champions podium. Sunil’s accomplishments speak for themselves, having scored 50+ tackle points in a season for an incredible third time. An impressive 64 tackle points from 23 fixtures of Season 9 was unique testament to Sunil’s talents, ensuring that he stands out amongst some of the finest players in India today.
Aman Antil
The Bull left-corner defender made his Kabbadi debut last season and fired on all cylinders, quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s best. His inspired performances outshone even that of veteran defender Amit Sheoran, earning him a coveted spot at the heart of the Bull’s defence. As is to be expected, following such a skillful performance, news of his retention for the glorious ninth edition precedent came up with no surprise – a testament of how much faith team manager Randhir Singh Sehrawat had in him at the beginning of what would prove to be an incredible season.
After 14 appearances, the age of breakthrough had come for the Sonepat-based youngster as he achieved his first High 5 of the season against the Titans this year. His fearless spirit and influential tackles stunned all as he scored a solitary Super Tackle along with other five crucial tackle points that helped his team clinch an exhilarating two-point victory. The player showed resolute resilience in tough times and worked diligently to get back into his flow eventually succeeding in his mission. With an eye-catching performance against Puneri Paltan, he grabbed the attention of everyone and inked his name in glory once again.
