Nitin Tomar was an instant hit in the Pro Kabaddi League, so much so that the duration of his bidding war at the Season 5 auction surpassed the time he normally spends while raiding in a single encounter.
Nitin Tomar, Puneri Paltan player
Chennai:
With the clock ticking and deadlines getting closer, sports correspondents from various publications at the auction hall were all but ready with their final draft. But, that was when UP Yoddha decided to break the bank for Nitin, making him the highest-paid player for that edition. Be it on or off the field, he keeps everyone on their toes.
The scenario was similar in Season 6 auctions too as he reunited with Puneri Paltan, after being picked up for a whopping sum of Rs 1.15 Cr. Asked if the price tag weighs heavily on his shoulders, he said, “I am happy to know that the remuneration for players is increasing day by day, which is a positive sign. As far as the amount is concerned, I will not let it become a baggage or a defining factor for my performance. I want my team to lift the trophy and I will go all out to ensure that we clinch the title this year.” With some teasingly tantalising fixtures set to take place in the tournament’s opening leg here, the 2016 World Cup winner is upbeat about going the distance with the Pune-based franchise.
“We have a fantastic set of players and the team is perfectly balanced. (Rajesh) Mondal, Girish (Ernak) and Sandeep (Narwal) have played many national level games and their experience will be instrumental in defeating our rivals. Youngsters like Rinku (Narwal), GB More and Akshay Jadhav too will play a significant role in holding our fortress. Also, our coach Ashan sir’s valuable guidance will help us in going a long way,” added Nitin through an email conversation with DT Next.
On occasions when his team looked done and dusted, the dynamic raider marched forward with dazzling performances, reviving teammates with ease. Despite grabbing the eye with his individual brilliance, the Services man puts team above self. “In a team sport, there is no me, it’s always we. My team’s objective is my personal objective. The management has provided us with best trainers, coaches and infrastructure. I will work hard and put forth by best foot forward to help my team achieve this dream,” explained Nitin.