We’ll Approach PKL Season 12 Final Like Any Other Game: Ashu Malik
Dabang Delhi KC’s road to Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 has been nothing short of extraordinary. Speaking during the Media Day organized by JioStar ahead of the final, Dabang Delhi KC Captain Ashu Malik emphasized a collective approach and the vital role of fan support and said the team owes its success to strong bond, relentless preparation and strategic coaching. He also explained the team’s mentality, leadership responsibilities and praised the talent emerging in the league.
On the reasons for Dabang Delhi KC’s success this PKL Season 12:
“It would be wrong to single out just one reason for our performance. Our strong team bond, excellent strategies from Coach Joginder Narwal and constant support from the management have been crucial. The players have maintained consistent training without rest, both during training camps and throughout the season. This collective dedication and preparation is the reason why we continue to win matches.”
The team’s final preparations are as follows:
“Our team has performed exceptionally well this season and every player has met expectations. We are currently focused on our final preparations and implementing Coach’s strategies effectively. With only one day left before the final, we have 2-3 training sessions where we will address our mistakes and improve our game plan.”
About his approach in the finale:
“We will approach this final like any other match, but with the understanding that it is a do or die situation as there are no matches left from now on. Having previously played in the Season 8 final, this experience will definitely help me in the championship match of Season 12. We are determined to give our full effort to win the Cup for the second time.”
On the captaincy pressure before the final:
“As captain, I am aware of the responsibilities that fall on my shoulders and rather than shying away from them, I welcome them. Every player in our team shares this sense of duty. There is no pressure on us, our Coach has given us the freedom to approach this final as a golden opportunity to lift the trophy. We are determined to see this match as the ultimate challenge and to secure victory by whatever means necessary.”
On the importance of collective teamwork:
“We will not rely solely on our defensive strength. Every player must contribute as we must perform as a united team. When we play collectively, all departments automatically synchronize, our defense becomes stronger and our raids improve simultaneously. Victory will come if all players perform their roles effectively. We are determined to perform at our best.”
In a team environment:
“Our team atmosphere continues to be excellent, experienced players need little motivation as they understand how to deal with any situation. Throughout this season, no player has appeared uncertain as everyone knows their specific role. Beyond my leadership, Fazel Atrachali provides crucial guidance in difficult moments and takes breaks to explain even small details. The coach gives effective motivational speeches that clarify our approach in different scenarios and raise the players’ morale. I ensure open communication, encourage my teammates to share their concerns, so that we can solve them together. Everyone “With full motivation, we are now enthusiastic and waiting for the final to show a strong performance.”
About the emerging talents in the Pro Kabaddi League this season:
“We are all fully aware of Patna Pirates’ raider extraordinaire Ayan Lohchab’s ability to accumulate seemingly effortless raid points and secure Super 10s with remarkable consistency. I have been particularly impressed with right corner defender Navdeep, another rising star of their team, who has not only accumulated the highest number of tackle points this season but has also truly established himself as the most formidable defensive presence on the mat this year. Within our own Dabang Delhi KC squad, the left wing back has surely produced a string of consistently outstanding performances throughout this campaign. Highlight the outstanding contributions of our player Sandeep Deswal. A youngster like Deepak Sankar of Bengaluru Bulls, experiencing the immense pressure of the Pro Kabaddi League for the first time, has shown incredible composure and skill, bringing out a new crop of talented athletes with each passing year. The greater the opportunities we provide to these dedicated youngsters, the more our incredible sport will continue to produce star players into the future.”
