Dabang Delhi Raider Naveen Kumar Ruled Out of Pro Kabaddi 2024. Check Details

In a significant blow to Dabang Delhi KC, captain Naveen Kumar has been ruled out for the remainder of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2023-24 season. The franchise confirmed this unfortunate news on Thursday, January 11, after the star raider dislocated his left knee during a raid against Jaipur Pink Panthers on December 27, 2023.

Initially hopeful for a swift return to the mat, Dabang Delhi coach Rambhir Singh Khokhar, in a recent statement, acknowledged that Naveen Kumar would undergo surgery on his left knee. The 24-year-old, who sustained the injury during the last day of the Chennai leg, will undergo right-knee ligament surgery as part of a comprehensive treatment plan overseen by the medical experts and the Dabang Delhi K.C. management.

Naveen Kumar Ruled Out of Pro Kabaddi 2024

The franchise released a statement, saying, “In the aftermath of the injury sustained on December 27th… Naveen Kumar… will not be able to participate further in the ongoing season of Pro Kabaddi League 10.”

Dabang Delhi KC CEO Durganath Wagle expressed the team’s support for Naveen Kumar during his rehabilitation. He acknowledged Naveen’s leadership and performance, calling his absence a blow to the team. Wagle assured that the franchise is committed to providing the star raider with the best possible care.

“Naveen has been a prominent leader and the key reason behind Dabang Delhi’s success over the years. His injury is a blow to our team, and we stand with him during these tough times. His leadership and outstanding performance have been instrumental for us, and we are committed to providing him with the best possible care during his rehabilitation,” Wagle stated.

With Naveen Kumar sidelined, the leadership responsibility falls on raider Ashu Malik, who led Dabang Delhi in the last four matches. Despite the absence of their captain, the team currently sits second on the points table with seven wins from 11 matches.

Dabang Delhi KC will face Patna Pirates on January 14 at the SMS Indoor Stadium in Jaipur. The team aims to continue its successful run in the absence of Naveen Kumar, who earlier in the season became the fastest player to reach 1000 raid points, solidifying his status as a kabaddi sensation.