U Mumba has welcomed back kabaddi legend Rakesh Kumar as their head coach for the upcoming Pro Kabaddi League season. His return to the franchise comes after nearly a decade, bringing with him a wealth of experience and leadership that has defined his career.
A three-time Asian Games gold medallist and former captain of the Indian kabaddi team, Rakesh is regarded as one of the finest players the sport has seen. His return is expected to bolster U Mumba’s ambitions of reclaiming their dominance in the league.
With his tactical expertise and deep understanding of the game, the team is set to undergo a transformation under his guidance.
U Mumba has been building excitement around his appointment through their #Se7enIsBack campaign, celebrating his history with the team and reinforcing their focus on strong leadership and a winning mentality.
The franchise aims to assemble a squad that performs consistently at the highest level while upholding its legacy of determination and excellence.
Rakesh was the highest-paid player in the inaugural season of the Pro Kabaddi League and later joined U Mumba in Season 3. His ability to lead and inspire has been evident not just as a player but also as a coach.
He previously coached Haryana in the PKL and has been instrumental in shaping the Indian Railways kabaddi team. His experience in mentoring and strategising makes him a valuable addition to the U Mumba setup in this new role.
Speaking about his return, Rakesh expressed his excitement about rejoining the team in a different capacity.
He recalled his time as a player with U Mumba and said he is eager to instill the same energy and rhythm the team had in its early seasons. He emphasised the importance of building a strong squad and working hard to bring the team back to top form.
U Mumba’s management is optimistic about this new chapter, with a renewed focus on defensive solidity and a well-balanced raiding unit. The appointment of Rakesh is seen as a blend of nostalgia and strategic foresight, as he is a familiar and trusted figure for both the players and the fans.
His deep understanding of the sport and his ability to motivate players are expected to play a crucial role in the team’s journey ahead.
Welcoming Rakesh back, U Mumba CEO Suhail Chandhok praised his contributions to Indian kabaddi and acknowledged his stature as one of the greatest players the country has produced.
He highlighted Rakesh’s achievements, including his Arjuna Award and three Asian Games gold medals, and expressed confidence in his leadership as head coach. Chandhok also noted that Rakesh’s respect among players is unparalleled and that his vision aligns perfectly with the team’s goals.
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