In the electric atmosphere of the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, the chants of ‘Arjun, Arjun’ reverberate as Arjun Deshwal, the star raider of Jaipur Pink Panthers, steps onto the kabaddi mat. Despite the four-year hiatus of the Pro Kabaddi League in the Rajasthan capital, the fervent support for the defending champions remains unwavering, especially for their talismanic raider, Arjun Deshwal.
Hailing from Baseda, Uttar Pradesh, the 24-year-old Deshwal has become the linchpin of Jaipur Pink Panthers since his acquisition in the Season 8 auction. His consistent performance has been instrumental in the team’s success, earning him accolades as the Most Valuable Player of Season 9.
In Season 9, Deshwal dominated the raid points charts, amassing a staggering 296 points in 24 matches while achieving the Super 10 mark 17 times. His debut season with Jaipur saw him secure 267 points, securing the second position among the top raiders, with 16 Super 10s to his credit.
Remarkably, Deshwal continues to lead the raid points charts in the current season, exhibiting his unrivaled prowess on the kabaddi mat. A standout performance against UP Yoddhas in Kolkata on February 12 showcased his brilliance, with Deshwal single-handedly contributing nearly 30 percent of Jaipur’s total points in a resounding 67-30 victory.
Despite his stellar achievements, Deshwal remains grounded and humble, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in kabaddi. In an interview with Scroll during the Jaipur leg of the PKL, he downplays the lavish praise directed towards him, emphasizing that success in kabaddi is a collective effort.
Deshwal’s humility is a testament to his sportsmanship and team spirit, qualities that have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. His selfless approach and dedication to the team’s cause underscore his leadership on and off the field.
As Jaipur Pink Panthers strive for further glory in the Pro Kabaddi League, Arjun Deshwal stands as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the values of perseverance, humility, and teamwork. With his indomitable spirit and unmatched talent, Deshwal continues to script his legacy as one of kabaddi’s finest raiders, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s storied history.
