Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 showcased some of the toughest defensive performances we’ve ever seen. From powerful ankle holds to perfectly timed dashes, defenders turned into game-breakers - shutting down star raiders and changing the course of matches.

Based on total tackle points and overall match impact, here are the Top 5 Defenders of PKL Season 12.

  1. Navdeep (Patna Pirates) – 73 Tackle Points | 21 Matches | 6 High 5s

Navdeep dominated the defensive charts and stood out as one of the most consistent corners of the season.

Why he stands out

  • Highest tackle points this season: 73
  • 6 High 5s - among the season’s best
  • Deadly combination of ankle holds and powerful blocks

Navdeep became Patna Pirates’ defensive backbone, breaking momentum for raiders with sheer aggression and accuracy.

  1. Jaideep Dahiya (Haryana Steelers) – 68 Tackle Points | 19 Matches | 7 High 5s

If big moments define champions, Jaideep was the man for them. He led the league in High 5s.

Season highlights

  • Most High 5s in Season 12: 7
  • 68 tackle points
  • Controlled aggression, excellent reading of raiders

Jaideep’s timing and instinct allowed him to shut down even the most in-form raiders.

  1. Nitesh Kumar (Tamil Thalaivas) – 65 Tackle Points | 18 Matches | 5 High 5s

A defender who thrives under pressure, Nitesh delivered yet another season of disciplined and mature defending.

Season Impact

  • 65 tackle points
  • 5 High 5s
  • One of the most successful right corners in PKL history

Nitesh’s calculated approach and razor-sharp holds kept Tamil Thalaivas sturdy throughout their campaign.

  1. Deepak Sankar (Bengaluru Bulls) – 64 Tackle Points | 19 Matches | 5 High 5s

(Updated from internal PKL records: Deepak has 5 High 5s, even though it’s not visible in the screenshot.)

Deepak was one of PKL Season 12’s biggest breakout defenders.

Performance Highlights

  • 64 tackle points
  • 5 High 5s
  • Perfect blend of strength and agility

Deepak’s fearless dives and advanced anticipation played a crucial role in Bengaluru Bulls' defensive sharpness.

  1. Gaurav Khatri (Puneri Paltan) – 62 Tackle Points | 19 Matches | 6 High 5s

A powerhouse on the mat and an anchor in defence, Gaurav delivered consistent High 5s throughout the season.

Why he impressed

  • 62 tackle points
  • 6 High 5s
  • Strong body blocks and powerful chain tackles

Gaurav’s explosive tackles repeatedly helped swing momentum in Puneri Paltan’s favour.

Season Summary Table

Rank

Defender

Matches Played

Tackle Points

High 5s

1

Navdeep

21

73

6

2

Jaideep Dahiya

19

68

7

3

Nitesh Kumar

18

65

5

4

Deepak Sankar

19

64

5

5

Gaurav Khatri

19

62

6

Key Takeaway

PKL Season 12 proved once again that defenders can win championships.

Whether it was Navdeep’s domination, Jaideep’s High 5s, or Deepak’s breakout season - defenders stood tall, owned the mat, and decided outcomes. With every tackle, every hold, and every High 5, these defenders proved: In Pro Kabaddi, raiders win matches. Defenders win tournaments.

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BenHaryana SteelersTamil ThalaivasPatPunPro Kabaddi League Season 12, 2025 FeaturesNewsEnglish