Name: Sombir

Team: Telugu Titans

Position: Defender, Right Corner

Matchday 20 witnessed another set of closely-fought matches on Saturday evening. Though U.P. Yoddha’s winless home streak continued as they failed to hold their nerves in the dying minutes to lose to Haryana Steelers, Telugu Titans made an inspiring comeback to end their eight-match winless streak with a 37-32 win against Season 2 champions U Mumba. Rahul Chaudhari did what he does best but it was young Sombir, who stole the show with an extraordinary performance in defence.

The 19-year defender had previously featured in four matches for the Titans this season and had just one point to his name. However, he chose the Inter Zone Challenge Week match against U Mumba to make a resounding statement. He ended the match with an impressive tally of eight tackle points, picking up his first VIVO Pro Kabaddi High 5 in the process.

Sombir was also the initiator of two super tackles in a matter of three minutes which kept his team away from the jaws of an All-Out. The Titans handed U Mumba two All-Outs in the match, thanks to the splendid performance of Sombir at the back and the dominance of Chaudhari up front. This match could well be the making of Sombir.