New Delhi: The defending champions, Haryana Steelers under Manpreet Singh, are eyeing back-to-back PKL titles. If they manage to do the same, they will become just the second team in the league’s history to successfully defend their title.
They made their debut back in 2017, but they have been consistent teams in recent years and have managed to make it to the Playoffs in four of the seven seasons that they have competed in.
Manpreet will lead the side once again. He began his coaching journey on a brilliant note with Gujarat Giants and helped them make it to the finals in Seasons 5 and 6.
With their championship-winning core intact, the Steelers went into the PKL Season 12 Player Auction focused on adding depth to the roster. They secured 10 new signings at the auction, investing a total of INR 4.983 crore to assemble a well-rounded squad.
सुपर से भी ऊपर🤌🤌#HaqqSeHaryanvi #NonStopHaryanvi #DhaakadBoys pic.twitter.com/3FP4NTAGRb
— Haryana Steelers (@HaryanaSteelers) August 26, 2025
Haryana Steelers’ Strengths
The Steelers’ biggest advantage heading into PKL Season 12 is the continuity of their title-winning core. In the raiding department, Vinay, Shivam Anil Patare and Vishal Tate will once again spearhead the attack. Vinay was the side’s top performer last season with 164 raid points in 24 games while Shivam provided strong support with 158 points in as many matches.
Vishal chipped in with valuable contributions, scoring 43 raid points in 13 outings. On the defensive front, captain Jaideep Dahiya and right corner Rahul Sethpal will continue to form the backbone of the backline giving the Steelers both stability and leadership.
Adding to this solid foundation, the franchise made a big splash at the auction by signing Naveen Kumar for INR 1.20 crore. The experienced raider, with 1,102 raid points in 107 games, brings a proven pedigree. A PKL champion with Dabang Delhi K.C. in 2022 and a two-time MVP, Naveen significantly strengthens the Steelers’ attacking arsenal.
Haryana Steelers’ Weakness
Despite boasting a strong squad, the Steelers face notable setbacks heading into Season 12 with the exit of Mohammadreza Shadloui. The Iranian all-rounder was the heartbeat of their title-winning campaign, producing 82 tackle points and 57 raid points across 24 matches to rightfully claim the MVP award last season.
Shadloi’s absence leaves a major void in the left corner. While players like Rahul Ahir, Hardeep and Sahil Narwal are available for the role. Though their limited Pro Kabaddi experience raises concerns about defensive stability.
The champions also have to cope with the departure of right cover Sanjay Krishan Dhull, who joined Bengaluru Bulls after playing a vital role in Season 11. Dhull registered 57 tackle points and was a key figure in shaping their defensive unit. The Steelers now turn to options such as Manikandan N, Zubair, and Sachin but replicating Dhull’s consistency could prove to be a real challenge.
Haryana Steelers’ Opportunities
Though they seem to have weak defensive unit on paper but the likes of Manikandan N, Sachin, Ritik, Hardeep, Rahul and Ankit will have the golden opportunity to showcase their talent and earn a spot in their name.
Manpreet Singh, after failing thrice, finally lifted the coveted trophy last year and will look to win back-to-back titles to cement his legacy in the league.
Haryana Steelers’ Threats
The Steelers will head into the season with a few concerns, particularly the lack of quality all-rounders to balance the squad. Sahil Narwal and Ashish Narwal are listed in the role but haven’t produced the kind of performances needed to fill the void left in the lineup.
Another worry is the fitness of star raider Naveen Kumar, who managed only 97 raid points in 16 matches last season after battling a knee injury. His form will be vital to the team’s success while the departure of Mohammadreza Shadloui also leaves the left side of their defence exposed.