The Telugu Titans have experienced a continuous downward spiral in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in recent seasons, finishing at the bottom of the standings for the last three consecutive editions. Despite showing signs of hope with the acquisition of star raider Pawan Sehrawat, the team continues to struggle, leaving fans and experts questioning their inability to turn things around.
Failed comeback in PKL season 11
After a dismal performance in previous seasons, the Telugu Titans were expected to return stronger in Season 11 under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Krishan Kumar Hooda. Hooda, a title-winning coach with Dabang Delhi and a Dronacharya Award winner, was seen as the ideal candidate to revive the team’s fortunes.
At the Season 11 Player Auction, the Titans made several strategic moves, retaining Pawan Sehrawat for INR 1.725 crores and acquiring top defender Krishan for INR 70 lakhs. This squad revamp aimed to address their glaring weaknesses. With Sehrawat, one of PKL’s most prolific raiders, in their ranks, and a solid defensive line led by Krishan, hopes were high for the team. However, the reality has been different.
Lack of fight, despite big names in Telugu Titans
Despite having Pawan Sehrawat, the current Indian captain who led the country to gold at the Asian Games 2023, the Telugu Titans remain winless after five matches in Season 11. The team’s lack of fight on the mat has been disheartening. Their recent losses – to teams like Gujarat Giants, Patna Pirates, and Tamil Thalaivas – have not only been defeats but also outright thrashings, with the Titans losing by margins that show no sign of competitiveness.
Sehrawat, although a key player, has not been able to work his magic. He has accumulated only 39 raid points from four matches, far below his usual standards. The Titans’ inability to provide adequate support in both raiding and defence continues to plague them.
No consistent support for Pawan Sehrawat
One of the Titans’ major weaknesses remains their lack of a reliable second raider to support Pawan Sehrawat. Last season, both Prafull Zaware and Omkar Patil struggled to deliver, and this issue has persisted. While Pawan can only do so much, he needs assistance when on the bench or during crucial phases of the match. This lack of depth in attack has once again been their Achilles’ heel.
Moreover, the defensive unit, despite the addition of Krishan, has not performed up to expectations. Although Krishan was one of the top defenders in the previous season, he has been unable to lead the defence to consistent performances in Season 11. Milad Jabbari and Ajit Pawar, who were supposed to provide support, have also been underwhelming, making the team’s defence vulnerable.
Searching for Lost Glory: Telugu Titans in PKL
The Titans were once one of the most formidable teams in PKL, reaching the playoffs twice in Season 2 and 4. Players like Rahul Chaudhari made them a force to reckon with, and their fan base was among the most loyal in the league. However, in recent seasons, the Titans have lost their mojo, despite multiple attempts to rebuild.
With just one victory in Season 8 and two in Season 9, the Telugu Titans have shown no significant improvement. The addition of big names like Pawan Sehrawat and Krishan has not been enough to bring about a change in their fortunes.
Is there any hope for Telugu Titans?
As Season 11 nears, the Telugu Titans find themselves in a peculiar position. Despite the presence of star players and a highly experienced coach, their inability to string together wins or even put up a strong fight remains a concern. Fans who once cheered for the Titans’ glory days now watch in disappointment, hoping that the team can somehow find a way to turn things around.
If Pawan Sehrawat, a proven champion, can’t bring them success, the question remains: who can? The Telugu Titans’ woes appear far from over, and unless drastic changes are made, they risk being remembered as the worst-performing team in PKL history.
