The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has released the list of retained players for Season 11, and the defending champion Puneri Paltan has made some significant decisions. The Pune-based team, known for its strong academy system, has retained the bulk of its young Indian core, signaling a commitment to developing homegrown talent.
However, the team has also made a surprising move by releasing its defensive lynchpin and star all-rounder, Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh, ahead of the PKL 11 auction. This decision has raised eyebrows, as Chiyaneh was a key contributor to the team’s success in the previous season, which saw them clinch their maiden PKL title.
Despite this loss, the Puneri Paltan still boasts a strong roster with the retention of key players like Aslam Mustafa Inamdar, who was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of PKL 10. Other retained young players include Pankaj Mohite, Mohit Goyat, Sanket Sawant, Akash Santosh Shinde, and Aditya Tushar Shinde. The team has also retained a number of ‘Existing New Young Players’ including Dadaso Shivaji Pujari, Nitin Tushar Dattaray Adhavade, and Vaibhav Balasaheb Kamble.
The Puneri Paltan’s decision to retain its young core suggests a long-term vision for the team. They are clearly focused on building a sustainable winning culture by nurturing young talent through their Yuva Paltan feeder team. The upcoming PKL 11 auction, scheduled for August 16th and 17th in Mumbai, will be crucial for the team to further bolster its roster and prepare for another successful season. The PKL 11 season is expected to be highly competitive with all teams looking to challenge the defending champions.
