Expect Rohit Kumar to improve as he keeps playing: Surjeet Narwal

Rohit Kumar

While the Dabangs lost their season opener to Telegu Titans, it did come with its own silver lining. The team’s latest recruit- the young and vigorous Rohit Kumar, shone in the sence of India international and star raider-Surjeet Narwal. Having been made to miss out with a recurring back injury, the seasoned campaigner from Sonepat watched on from the sidelines and spoke highly of Rohit’s performance,

“Considering it was his debut, he did really well.Aage aur acha karega,” Narwal said.

The 22-year old raider, who hails from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, is believed to specialise in the back kick- a facet of the game which is treasured in this format considering it optimize the accumulation of bonus points.

What sets him apart is his nimble footwork and ability to wriggle out of tough situation. As adventurous as he is, Rohit believes in taking out the entire hive of defenders while entering in the rival court. From what is evident, he has gotten accustomed to the playing techniques of his teammates over the 3 preparatory camps and is in sync with Coach Honnappa’s tactics too.

For someone who picked it up as a hobby before deciding to turn professional some 6 years back, Kabaddi means more than a sport to him. It’s a way of leading life.

While he fetched a job in the Indian Army and then earned a bronze at the Senior Nationals in 2010 as part of their squad, playing for the Dabangs tops every other distinction for him till date. He sees it as an opportunity to get noticed- to make a mark at the grandest stage of them.

As he reminisces, seldom did people take notice of Kabaddi players before, but now everyone recognizes him. His own cousin in fact got under his aegis and has gone on to represent Haryana in the junior nationals since.

While Surjeet might return and the more experienced Kashiling might be preferred to start, it will be difficult for the Dabang management to keep Rohit out of the starting XI in the games to come. Here’s hoping he grows from strength to strength and build on what has been an inspiring journey so far.