Naveen Kumar boosts Haryana Steelers’ title hopes

New Delhi

With the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 fast approaching, Haryana Steelers head coach Manpreet Singh has expressed complete confidence in the fitness and readiness of star raider Naveen Kumar. Singh emphasized that the team’s medical and coaching staff will take every precaution to ensure Naveen remains injury-free and delivers peak performances throughout the season.

Naveen, who joined the Steelers for ₹1.20 crore in his first-ever PKL auction appearance, is set to play a crucial role in strengthening the team’s raiding unit. From a fitness and injury point of view, there’s no issue with Naveen right now. A player like him can uplift any team’s raiding lineup. We will make every possible effort to keep him fully fit, Manpreet said during the PKL pre-season Media Day, speaking alongside JioStar expert Rishank Devadiga.

The 23-year-old raider faced setbacks last season after an injury and surgery during PKL 10, which temporarily impacted his form. However, Manpreet highlighted Naveen’s resurgence in the latter stages of the league, followed by strong showings in the Nationals and recent Services matches.

The Steelers, who have reached the Playoffs in four of their seven seasons since debuting in 2017, have built a balanced squad ahead of PKL 12. Retaining their core and adding 10 new players with a total auction spend of ₹4.983 crore, the team boasts a formidable lineup. Alongside Naveen in raiding, the defence is anchored by consistent performers Rahul and Jaideep, now entering their third season together.

With fitness, experience, and squad balance on their side, the Haryana Steelers are aiming for a deep run in Season 12 and are confident that Naveen Kumar’s return to top form will be key to their title challenge.