Pro Kabaddi League: Anup Kumar to Manjeet Chhillar - 5 players who went on to coach PKL teams

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The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) has not only revolutionized the sport of kabaddi in India, but it has also created opportunities for players and coaches alike. Over the years, several players who once graced the PKL mat have returned to the league in a different avatar - as coaches.

Their deep understanding of the game and the tactical insights they gained during their playing days have helped them lead teams to success from the sidelines. Here's a look at five players who made the transition from PKL players to coaches:

1. Gurpreet Singh

Gurpreet Singh's rise to prominence as a coach might surprise those who don't remember his early playing days in the PKL. A sturdy defender, Gurpreet represented Bengaluru Bulls and Puneri Paltan in the league's first few seasons.

He was known for his timely blocks and crucial interventions, particularly while playing as a right-corner defender. His defensive prowess was most evident during his debut season when he racked up 24 tackle points for Bengaluru Bulls.

Hailing from Punjab, Gurpreet was already a seasoned kabaddi player before entering the PKL, having represented Punjab Police and the Indian national team. He also played a key role in India's gold medal victories at the 2010 and 2014 Asian Games. After retiring as a player, Gurpreet transitioned into coaching, taking on the role of assistant coach in PKL's seventh edition.

2. Manjeet Chhillar

Few kabaddi players have left as indelible a mark on the PKL as Manjeet Chhillar. A dynamic all-rounder, Manjeet was a key figure in the first few seasons, winning accolades like Best Defender in the inaugural season and Most Valuable Player in Season 2.

His versatility made him one of the most respected names in the sport.After his retirement from playing, Manjeet turned his attention to coaching.

While he is primarily remembered for his exploits on the mat, Manjeet quietly transitioned into coaching, taking up an assistant coach role with Telugu Titans. His deep knowledge of both offense and defense has made him a valuable asset on the coaching bench.

3. Jagdish Kumble

Jagdish Kumble's kabaddi career has seen him don multiple hats - player, coach, and leader. The Kerala-born raider was part of the Jaipur Pink Panthers squad that clinched the inaugural PKL title. Though his playing career in the league wasn't long, Kumble soon found success in coaching.

His coaching career kicked off as the head coach of Bengal Warriors in Seasons 5 and 6, leading them to the playoffs in both seasons. He then moved to Telugu Titans, where he served as an assistant coach in Season 7. Kumble's vast experience as a player and coach has helped him become one of the most respected figures in PKL coaching circles.

4. Rakesh Kumar

Rakesh Kumar was one of the most celebrated kabaddi players when the PKL began. In the league's inaugural season, he was the most expensive player, representing Patna Pirates.

Throughout his PKL playing career, Rakesh accumulated 186 raid points and 74 tackle points, playing for Patna Pirates, U Mumba, and Telugu Titans. Though his PKL career did not match the heights of his international exploits, Rakesh's contributions to Indian kabaddi are undeniable.

Rakesh's illustrious international career saw him win the Kabaddi World Cup twice (2004 and 2007) and secure three gold medals at the Asian Games (2006, 2010, 2014). After retiring as a player, Rakesh seamlessly transitioned into coaching, taking charge of Haryana Steelers as their head coach.

5. Anup Kumar

No list of legendary kabaddi players is complete without mentioning Anup Kumar. Known for his calm demeanor on the mat, Anup earned the nickname "Captain Cool" during his stellar PKL and international career.

He captained U Mumba for the first five seasons and led them to the title in Season 2. His leadership skills extended to the national team, where he captained India to their third Kabaddi World Cup win in 2016.

Anup ended his PKL playing career with over 500 raid points, a testament to his consistency. Post-retirement, he moved into coaching, taking on the head coach role with Puneri Paltan in Season 7. While his first season as coach didn't yield playoff success, Anup's ability to lead and inspire players has cemented his legacy both as a player and coach.