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On paper, UP Yoddha have assembled arguably the most cohesive squad in the league. As debutants, not many expected the Uttar Pradesh based outfit to get their balance right in their very first season. But the fact is, this team can well be considered among one of the favourites to lift the Pro Kabaddi season 5 trophy.
A stellar set of raiders will complement some extremely wise defenders on the mat. On that note, let’s take a look at the seven men who could possibly start for UP Yoddha.
#1 Nitin Tomar
The summer headlines belonged to one man and one man only – Nitin Tomar. Not in his wildest dreams would he have predicted his massive price tag at the auction.
Not that the dust is settled, he will have to be as focused as a race horse to justify the adulation and money he’s received in the past month. The most expensive kabaddi player of season 5 is a 22-year-old who will also captain this side. Let that sink in.
#2 Rishank Devadiga
UP have another supreme raider in their ranks who will be adamant on proving his worth. Last season, he could muster up 70 raid points – which is an impressive feat. But Rishank realises he’s capable of battling it out with the best in the game. He’s the kind of attacker who has the ability to notch up 100 points every season. If he remains fit, Rishank will pose a threat to every single team in the league.
#3 Hadi Tajik
Another Iranian who has attempted to wriggle through the massive Indian talent at the league's disposal, Hadi Tajik has a realistic opportunity of being a regular starter. This despite the fact that he’s played only two matches till date.
Hadi plays at the right corner, an extremely important defensive position. He will probably shift to the covers and the more experienced players will take up the corner positions.
#4 Jeeva Kumar
After four fruitful seasons at U Mumba, left cover, Jeeva will have to now get used to being a decision maker at UP Yoddha. At 36-years-old, Jeeva isn’t getting any younger, neither is he getting any slower.
Week in week out, he’s displayed his immaculate technique on the mat. One of the best cover defenders around, Jeeva’s low centre of gravity helps him manoeuvre the mat with pace and intent.
#5 Mahesh Goud
There are quite a few players who can play as the third raider in this team but Mahesh Goud will in all probability start for UP Yoddha. With 92 points in 34 matches, Mahesh will ensure the score card keeps ticking.
He isn’t the quickest raider out there, but the 27-year-old has time and again displayed good technique to trouble even the best of defenders in the league.
#6 Rajesh Narwal
While Sandeep Narwal sits proudly at the top as the league’s best all-rounder, Rajesh Narwal is moving at a rapid pace in his attempt to dethrone him. With 66 raid points last season, Rajesh finished as the league’s 9th best raider.
As a result, his defensive performances took a hit. With Rishank and Nitin around, he will primarily operate as a defender for UP.
#7 Santosh B.S
Like every other team in the league, UP Yoddha will struggle to select their 7th player. The auction completely dismantled whatever momentum that a team had built. As a result, coaches aren’t completely aware of which seven will be best suited to start.
The new kid on the block, Santosh B.S could well be handed his debut in U. P’s very first game. The 24-year-old operates as a left corner and will be thrust into some massive challenges during the season.
