In what appears to be a chaotic turn of events within the Puneri Paltan camp, a revelation from their now former head coach BC Ramesh has shed light on the disarray in the team's management. Speaking in a exclusive interview with Sportskeeda on December 2, Ramesh candidly shared that the decision to appoint Akash Shinde as captain was taken without his knowledge, sparking questions about the internal dynamics of the reigning champions.
This decision, believed to have been taken by a member of the management, added to the challenges faced by the Paltan in Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) season 11.
The Puneri Paltan started the season as strong title contenders, boasting a balanced team under skipper Aslam Inamdar. However, the tide turned in their sixth match when Aslam suffered a season-ending injury against the At home. His absence created a vacuum in the management, leading to Pankaj Mohite taking over the reins.
Despite Pankaj's efforts, the team managed only two wins in eight matches under his captaincy. The mounting pressure led Pankaj to resign, citing his inability to handle the dual responsibilities of captain and raider.
“We never intended to change Pankaj Mohite. He was part of the main seven and was also vice-captain. After Aslam's injury, we brought Akash Shinde into the lineup. However, Pankaj felt that the added responsibility of captaincy put too much pressure on him. He came to us and told us that he wanted to quit as captain because it was affecting his game,” Ramesh said.
Surprisingly, the decision to appoint Akash Shinde as captain was taken without Ramesh's input. BC Ramesh remained in the dark about this captaincy reshuffle.
“At that time, someone from the management announced Akash Shinde as captain,” he continued.
“Once a captain is announced, it is my responsibility to make sure they understand the expectations. But I don't know who called to announce Akash as captain after Pankaj resigned. Someone in management must have thought about it and made the decision. He announced it himself,” Ramesh added.
BC Ramesh removed as head coach right after Puneri Paltan defeat against U Mumba
\Akash Shinde first impressed with a Super 10 in his first match as captain, helping Pune beat Gujarat 34-33. However, their next outing ended in a humiliating 29-43 defeat against U Mumba in front of their home fans on 3 December.
To add to the drama, the very next day, December 4, BC Ramesh was removed as head coach and reassigned as team advisor. The decision left many wondering if internal turmoil within the team had derailed their season.
Currently, Pune are in seventh place in the points table with seven wins, six losses and three draws from 16 matches.
Despite their struggles, Ramesh remains optimistic about the team's potential.
“Qualifying for the playoffs is very important, and finishing in the top two is just as crucial. Right now our team is in a position where we are just fighting to qualify,” BC Ramesh said.
Ramesh emphasized responsibility and teamwork as the key to turning around their fortunes.
“I have been playing kabaddi for many years and know the talent and playing style of each player. If the boys want to perform well and become team champions, they need to take ownership of the game. They need to know their mistakes and work on them themselves. Our team has skilled raiders and defenders; there is no shortage of talent in this team,” he added.
BC Ramesh has great credentials, having already helped the Bengaluru Bulls to the PKL 6 title as assistant coach and the Bengal Warriorz to the PKL 7 title as head coach, followed by guiding the Puneri Paltan to the PKL 10 title.
“Improving is a huge task. I have been working for many years and have always kept the teams I have coached in first or second place. During the coaching camp, I taught them everything in depth and I am confident that they can apply these lessons. Now it’s up to them to perform and prove themselves,” BC Ramesh said.
Edited by Ankush Das
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