The latest season of the Pro Kabaddi League has once again highlighted why raiders are the backbone of modern kabaddi. PKL 2026 has been fast, tactical, and highly competitive, with teams relying heavily on their lead raiders to deliver under pressure. While defenders win matches with crucial tackles, it is the raiders who control momentum, force all-outs, and decide close contests.
Raiders today are not just point-scorers. They are strategists who read defensive formations, manage do-or-die raids, and deliver super raids in crunch situations. With playoffs approaching later in the season, individual brilliance in raiding could define team success.
Let’s break down the ranking criteria before revealing the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026.
Ranking Criteria
To maintain fairness and analytical depth, the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026 ranking is based on the following parameters:
1. Total Raid Points
The most basic indicator of performance. A higher total suggests consistency across matches. However, total points alone do not guarantee higher ranking if efficiency is low.
2. Raid Strike Rate
This reflects efficiency — successful raids divided by total raids attempted. A high strike rate indicates controlled aggression and better decision-making.
3. Average Raid Points per Match
Consistency matters more than occasional big games. Raiders averaging 9–10 points per match have a stronger season impact than those dependent on one or two massive performances.
4. Super Raids
Super raids (3+ points in a single raid) often change momentum. Players with multiple super raids demonstrate match-winning ability.
5. Impact in Close Matches
Performance in do-or-die raids and final minutes is crucial. Raiders who deliver under pressure rank higher.
Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026 (Ranked 10 to 1)
10. Ashu Malik – Dabang Delhi
- Raid Points: 135+
- Strike Rate: 52%
- Super Raids: 5
Ashu Malik’s agility and bonus-taking ability make him effective in tight defensive setups. Though slightly inconsistent early in the season, his performance in close matches earns him a spot in the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026.
9. Bharat Hooda – Bengaluru Bulls
- Raid Points: 145+
- Strike Rate: 50%
- Super Raids: 4
Bharat plays a supporting raider role but has stepped up in key moments. His do-or-die raid success percentage improves his ranking.
8. Siddharth Desai – Telugu Titans
- Raid Points: 150+
- Strike Rate: 49%
- Super Raids: 6
Known for his strength and running hand touch, Desai remains a threat. However, slightly lower efficiency keeps him at No. 8.
7. Maninder Singh – Bengal Warriors
- Raid Points: 160+
- Strike Rate: 53%
- Super Raids: 7
Maninder’s consistency stands out. He anchors the raiding unit and performs well in pressure moments.
6. Arjun Deshwal – Jaipur Pink Panthers
- Raid Points: 170+
- Strike Rate: 55%
- Super Raids: 8
Arjun’s speed and ability to escape ankle holds make him one of the most reliable raiders this season.
5. Naveen Kumar – Dabang Delhi
- Raid Points: 180+
- Strike Rate: 56%
- Super Raids: 9
“Naveen Express” continues to deliver high averages per match. His consistency in do-or-die raids strengthens his position in the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026 list.
4. Pawan Sehrawat – Telugu Titans
- Raid Points: 185+
- Strike Rate: 57%
- Super Raids: 10
Pawan combines power with speed. His super raid frequency keeps his team competitive even when trailing.
3. Aslam Inamdar – Puneri Paltan
- Raid Points: 190+
- Strike Rate: 58%
- Super Raids: 11
Aslam’s tactical awareness sets him apart. He reads defenders well and maintains a high average per match.
2. Surender Gill – U.P. Yoddhas
- Raid Points: 200+
- Strike Rate: 60%
- Super Raids: 12
Gill has been among the most efficient raiders this season. His strike rate and impact in crunch situations justify his high ranking.
1. Mohammadreza Shadloui – Puneri Paltan
- Raid Points: 210+
- Strike Rate: 62%
- Super Raids: 14
Although known for all-round ability, Shadloui’s raiding numbers and clutch performances place him at No. 1 in the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026 ranking. His impact in close matches and super raid count have changed multiple games.
Statistical Comparison Table
| Player | Matches | Raid Points | Strike Rate | Super Raids | Avg Raid Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shadloui | 18 | 210+ | 62% | 14 | 11.5 |
| Surender Gill | 19 | 200+ | 60% | 12 | 10.8 |
| Aslam Inamdar | 18 | 190+ | 58% | 11 | 10.5 |
| Pawan Sehrawat | 17 | 185+ | 57% | 10 | 10.2 |
| Naveen Kumar | 16 | 180+ | 56% | 9 | 11.0 |
| Arjun Deshwal | 18 | 170+ | 55% | 8 | 9.8 |
| Maninder Singh | 18 | 160+ | 53% | 7 | 9.2 |
| Siddharth Desai | 17 | 150+ | 49% | 6 | 8.8 |
| Bharat Hooda | 18 | 145+ | 50% | 4 | 8.0 |
| Ashu Malik | 17 | 135+ | 52% | 5 | 7.9 |
This table reinforces why efficiency and consistency matter in determining the Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026.
Emerging Raider (Bonus Section)
Guman Singh – U Mumba
Guman Singh has shown flashes of brilliance this season. With a strike rate above 55% and strong do-or-die raid performance, he could break into the Top 5 if he maintains consistency.
His agility and fearless approach make him one to watch.
Analysis: Who Can Win the Best Raider Award?
Three strong contenders stand out:
1. Mohammadreza Shadloui
Highest strike rate and super raid count.
2. Surender Gill
Consistency and efficiency.
3. Aslam Inamdar
Balanced raiding with tactical awareness.
If the season continues on current trends, the Best Raider award may go to the player who maintains performance in playoffs, not just league stage dominance.
Final Thoughts
The Top 10 Raiders in PKL 2026 ranking highlights how modern kabaddi demands both aggression and intelligence. Raiders must adapt to defensive analytics, manage do-or-die pressure, and maintain high strike rates.
As playoffs approach, teams with consistent raiders will hold a significant advantage. Momentum shifts often begin with one successful raid, and history shows that elite raiders define championship campaigns.
This season has already produced high-quality raiding performances, and the rankings may evolve as matches progress.
FAQ Section
Who is the best raider in PKL 2026?
Based on current performance metrics, Mohammadreza Shadloui leads the ranking.
Who has the most raid points this season?
Shadloui and Surender Gill are among the top scorers in PKL 2026.
Which team has the strongest raiding unit?
Puneri Paltan and Dabang Delhi currently have balanced raiding combinations.
Can rankings change before playoffs?
Yes, consistency in upcoming matches can significantly impact rankings.
Rankings are based on season performance and may change as the tournament progresses.
