The Tamil Thalaivas enter the Pro Kabaddi League 2026 season with one of the strongest squads in the competition. After strengthening their raiding department while retaining a solid defensive core, the franchise looks well-equipped to challenge for a place in the playoffs and potentially compete for its first PKL title.
The Tamil Thalaivas squad 2026 features experienced stars, exciting young talent, and quality overseas players who can make an impact in every match. Here are the Tamil Thalaivas best players to watch during the upcoming campaign.
1. Arjun Deshwal
Arjun Deshwal is undoubtedly the biggest signing among the Tamil Thalaivas players 2026 and will lead the team as captain.
One of the most consistent raiders in Pro Kabaddi League history, Deshwal is known for his ability to score points regularly through quick running hand touches, sharp footwork, and excellent awareness on the mat. His performances in Do-or-Die raids have made him one of the league’s most dependable match winners.
As the team’s primary raider, Deshwal will carry the responsibility of leading the attack and delivering Super 10 performances on a regular basis. His consistency could be the key to Tamil Thalaivas enjoying a successful season.
2. Narender Kandola
Narender Kandola has developed into one of the most exciting young raiders in the league.
Retained by the franchise, the left raider is known for his quick dubkis, clever toe touches, and fearless style of raiding. Playing alongside Arjun Deshwal gives him the freedom to attack defenders who are focused on stopping the captain.
If Kandola continues his rapid improvement, he could become one of the standout performers in the Tamil Thalaivas squad 2026.
3. Sagar Rathee
Sagar Rathee remains the leader of the Thalaivas’ defence.
Playing in the right corner, Sagar is widely respected for his outstanding ankle holds, calm decision-making, and excellent coordination with fellow defenders. His ability to read opposition raiders often results in crucial tackle points during pressure situations.
His defensive leadership will once again be vital as Tamil Thalaivas look to build their campaign around a strong backline.
4. Nitesh Kumar
Experienced defender Nitesh Kumar adds further strength to the defensive unit.
Known for becoming the first defender in PKL history to register 100 tackle points in a single season, Nitesh continues to be one of the league’s most reliable defenders. His powerful thigh holds, timely dashes, and strong tackling technique make him a difficult obstacle for any raider.
Together with Sagar Rathee, he forms one of the strongest corner combinations in the competition.
5. Moein Shafaghi
Iranian all-rounder Moein Shafaghi completes the list of Tamil Thalaivas best players.
Shafaghi offers valuable balance to the team with his ability to contribute in both attack and defence. Whether producing a timely dash tackle or scoring important raid points, the versatile all-rounder gives the coaching staff greater tactical flexibility.
His all-round abilities could prove especially valuable in closely contested matches.
Tamil Thalaivas Have the Tools to Challenge
The Tamil Thalaivas players 2026 provide an ideal mix of attacking quality and defensive stability. Arjun Deshwal and Narender Kandola form one of the most dangerous raiding partnerships in the league, while Sagar Rathee and Nitesh Kumar offer a dependable defensive foundation.
The addition of Moein Shafaghi further strengthens the balance of the Tamil Thalaivas squad 2026, giving the team options in both departments.
If these key performers stay fit and deliver consistently, Tamil Thalaivas have every chance of making a deep run in the Pro Kabaddi League this season. With experienced leaders and exciting match winners across the squad, these five Tamil Thalaivas best players will be central to the franchise’s hopes of ending the 2026 campaign with silverware.
