Kolkata, Aug 26 (IANS) – Bengal Warriorz have named star raider Devank Dalal as team captain for Season 12 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), with seasoned defender Nitesh Kumar taking charge as Defence Captain. The appointments mark the beginning of a new era for the franchise, which will feature a youthful squad aiming to play fearless, attacking kabaddi.
Devank, signed for a record ₹2.205 crore as the most expensive Indian player in the Season 12 auction, is coming off a phenomenal campaign. In Season 11, he topped the raiding charts with 301 raid points, joining an elite group of players to cross the 300-point mark in a single season. His remarkable comeback from a life-threatening skull injury in Season 10 has already earned him the Best Player award at the 71st Senior National Men’s Kabaddi Championship.
“Captaining Bengal Warriorz is a huge honour. I’ve fought hard to be back on this stage, and I want to lead with that same determination. With Nitesh marshalling the defence and Coach Naveen guiding us, I’m confident we’ll deliver kabaddi that excites fans and lives up to the Warriorz name,” said Devank.
On the defensive front, Nitesh remains one of PKL’s most reliable performers. Retained for his leadership and consistency, he is the only player in PKL history to score 100 tackle points in a single season (Season 6) and boasts over 400 career tackle points.
“Being named Defence Captain is a huge responsibility. In kabaddi, defence is just as crucial as attack. My aim is to provide stability, mentor the younger players, and ensure our defence sets the tone. A strong backline will give our raiders the freedom to win matches,” Nitesh said.
Head coach Naveen Kumar praised the leadership duo: “Devank leads with fearless attacking play, while Nitesh brings calm authority and experience in defence. Together, they are the ideal leaders for our young squad.”
Apurv Gupta, Director – Contact Sports, Capri Sports, added: “With Nitesh anchoring the defence and Devank spearheading the raiding unit, we have a leadership group that combines grit, determination, experience, and resilience.”
The Bengal Warriorz will kick off their PKL 12 campaign under this dynamic leadership, aiming to make a strong statement in the upcoming season.
