A true kabaddi legend Anup Kumar has etched his name in the annals of the sport’s history with his remarkable achievements. From winning two Asian Games gold medals (2010, 2014) to being honored with the Arjuna Award in 2012. Additionally, leading India to victory in the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup his accolades are numerous. Yet it was the advent of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) in 2014 that propelled Anup Kumar into the limelight as a household name.
Anup Kumar – A Pro Kabaddi Legend
Captaining U Mumba in PKL’s inaugural season Anup Kumar displayed his exceptional raiding skills and strategic brilliance. Nicknamed ‘Captain Cool’ for his composure he led U Mumba to three consecutive PKL finals. It is a record unmatched in the league’s history.
Season 1: Signed for ₹10.20 lakh, Anup was the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the season with 169 points in 16 matches. Despite his heroics U Mumba finished runners-up.
Season 2: Anup guided U Mumba to their first title contributing 81 points in 14 matches including 74 raid points.
Season 3: Although his performance dipped slightly (79 points in 13 matches) Anup once again led U Mumba to the final.
Over subsequent seasons, Anup’s influence on the mat began to wane culminating in U Mumba parting ways with him. Jaipur Pink Panthers picked him up for ₹30 lakh in Season 6 marking the final chapter of his illustrious playing career. Afterwards Anup retired with 596 points from 91 matches, leaving behind a legacy as one of PKL’s greatest raiders.
Transition to Coaching
Post-retirement, Anup Kumar transitioned into coaching, taking the reins of Puneri Paltan in PKL S7. While his debut season as a coach was challenging finishing 10th with seven wins from 22 matches. Anup’s tactical acumen and mentorship started to take shape.
Also with a stronger squad featuring stars like Rahul Chaudhari and Nitin Tomar for the upcoming season Anup Kumar aims to lead Puneri Paltan to their maiden PKL title. Armed with experience and a balanced team the ‘Bonus ka Badshah’ is ready to write a new chapter in his kabaddi legacy.
Key Highlights of Anup Kumar’s PKL Journey
• Achievements as a Player: 1. MVP of Season 1 with 169 points. 2. Led U Mumba to three consecutive finals (winning in Season 2). 3. 10th on PKL’s all-time raiding list with 527 points.
• Impact as a Coach: 1. Debut coaching season with Puneri Paltan in Season 7. 2. Assembled a strong squad for the upcoming campaign
Nevertheless, Anup Kumar’s journey from a stellar raider to a strategic coach epitomizes growth and resilience, making him a symbol of kabaddi’s evolving landscape.
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