UP Yoddhas will once again enter the Pro Kabaddi League 2026 with hopes of making a deep run in the competition. The team has built a balanced squad featuring experienced defenders, reliable raiders, and exciting young talent. With a combination of leadership and attacking strength, the franchise will be aiming to challenge for its first PKL title.
The UP Yoddhas squad 2026 has several match winners capable of changing games on their own. Here are the UP Yoddhas best players to watch this season.
1. Sumit Sangwan
Captain Sumit Sangwan remains the backbone of the UP Yoddhas players 2026 lineup. Playing as a left-corner defender, Sumit has established himself as one of the league’s most dependable defensive players.
His ankle holds are among the best in the competition, and his ability to read opposition raiders makes him a valuable asset. Beyond his defensive skills, Sumit also plays a key leadership role by organizing the team’s defensive structure and making tactical decisions during crucial moments.
If UP Yoddhas are to enjoy a successful season, Sumit’s consistency will be vital.
2. Surender Gill
Surender Gill continues to be the main raiding weapon for UP Yoddhas. The tall raider is known for his long reach, quick toe touches, and ability to perform under pressure.
Gill is especially dangerous during Do-or-Die raids, where he often delivers crucial points for his team. His aggressive style also allows him to score multi-point raids that quickly shift momentum in UP Yoddhas’ favour.
Among the UP Yoddhas best players, Gill remains the biggest attacking threat.
3. Guman Singh
Guman Singh is another player who deserves close attention this season. Added to strengthen the raiding department, he brings pace, agility, and creativity to the squad.
His quick hand touches and ability to escape multiple defenders make him one of the most exciting raiders in the UP Yoddhas squad 2026. Guman has the ability to produce game-changing raids during difficult situations and can turn close contests in a matter of seconds.
His partnership with Surender Gill could become one of the strongest raiding combinations in the league.
4. Ashu Singh
Vice captain Ashu Singh plays a crucial role in the team’s defensive unit. Operating as the right cover defender, he provides strength and stability alongside captain Sumit Sangwan.
Ashu is known for his powerful blocks and well timed dashes that stop even the best opposition raiders. His understanding with Sumit gives UP Yoddhas one of the strongest defensive partnerships in the league.
His experience and physical presence make him one of the key UP Yoddhas players 2026.
5. Bhavani Rajput / Gagana Gowda
Bhavani Rajput and young talent Gagana Gowda add valuable depth to the raiding department. Both players are capable of making important contributions whenever the team needs support from the bench.
They are particularly effective at collecting bonus points and reviving key teammates during long defensive phases. Their contributions may not always grab headlines, but they often prove decisive during close matches.
As the season progresses, either player could emerge as a surprise performer for the UP Yoddhas squad 2026.
A Balanced Squad Ready to Compete
The UP Yoddhas players 2026 combine experienced leadership with exciting attacking talent. Sumit Sangwan leads a strong defensive unit, while Surender Gill and Guman Singh provide firepower in the raiding department. Ashu Singh adds further defensive strength, and Bhavani Rajput or Gagana Gowda offer valuable support.
With this balanced lineup, the UP Yoddhas best players have the quality to guide the franchise towards another strong campaign in the Pro Kabaddi League 2026.
