Mon Oct 21 14:00:07 UTC 2024: U Mumba, former champions of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), are looking to reclaim their past glory in Season 11 after experiencing league-stage exits for three consecutive seasons. Key points from their preparation include:
– **Coaching**: Gholamreza Mazandarani continues as head coach, bringing experience after guiding the Iranian team to gold at the 2018 Asian Games.
– **Player Auction**: U Mumba revamped their squad, focusing on strengthening both their defense and attack.
– **Defensive Strength**:
– Sunil Kumar will lead the defense, supported by strong players like Parvesh Bhainswal, Rinku, Gokulakannan M, Bittu, and Sombir.
– Kumar has 336 tackle points, with Bhainswal following closely at 310.
– **Attacking Concerns**:
– U Mumba lost key raider Guman Singh, leaving the team reliant on all-rounder Amirmohammad Zafardanesh and Manjeet for raiding duties.
– Zafardanesh excelled in his debut season, scoring 141 points, while Manjeet has over 600 career raid points but has not yet taken on a primary raider role.
– **Inexperience**: The squad features about 10 players new to PKL, raising concerns about their readiness. Success will depend on whether these players can step up and perform in the forthcoming season.
The new season begins on October 18, 2024, where U Mumba hopes to overcome these challenges and showcase their skills.