Mumbai Khiladis, led by the talented all-round player Aniket Pote, are gearing up for the second edition of the Ultimate Kho Kho, set to take place from December 24 to January 14, 2024, in Cuttack, Odisha. Aniket Pote, a 26-year-old attacker, has established himself as one of the most decorated players in the Kho Kho circuit, clinching gold medals for India, including an outstanding performance at the recent Asian Championship.
Pote’s stellar performance in Season 1 has earned him a spot in the coveted Ultimate Kho Kho Dream Team. With an impressive record of eight gold and five silver medals at the Senior Nationals, Aniket is renowned for his commitment and dedication on the mat. His leadership will be crucial for Mumbai Khiladis, who have strategically built a young and dynamic team for the upcoming season.
“It was an unexpected decision for me, but I am really grateful for getting this opportunity. I will give my best to repay the management’s faith and take Mumbai Khiladis to greater heights.” Aniket Pote was declared as the captain of Mumbai Khiladis in a ceremony in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking on the captain’s appointment, Mumbai Khiladis’ team owner Punit Balan was quoted as saying, “Selecting Aniket Pote as our captain for Season 2 was a strategic choice. His exceptional performance in the first edition and the manner [in which] he demonstrated leadership qualities on the mat made him the natural choice for this crucial role.”
Adding to the team’s strength, 27-year-old defender Mahesh Shinde has been appointed as the vice-captain. Mahesh, one of the standout defenders from the previous season, boasts a defending time of 15:33 minutes. The multidimensional Mumbai Khiladis have opted for a diverse squad, featuring 13 all-rounders in Season 2.
The team’s formidable lineup includes Sreejesh S, who ranked among the top five defenders in Season 1 with an impressive defending time of 17 minutes and 35 seconds. Additionally, they have acquired the services of Subhasis Santra, the all-rounder who clinched victory in Season 1, and 16-year-old Sunil Patra, injecting energy, vigour, and speed into the playing squad.
Currently undergoing rigorous training at the Biju Patnaik Indoor Stadium, KIIT campus, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, under the guidance of coach Vikas Suryavanshi, the Mumbai Khiladis are honing their skills in preparation for the upcoming season. With a combination of experienced players and emerging talents, the team aims to make a significant impact in the Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2.
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