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Pro Kabbadi League powerhouse U Mumba has had a conservative start as they have won two and lost two games in Season nine. The Mumbai-based franchise is sitting in fifth place with a point differential of -2. But in their 2022/23 squad, they found a diamond from the rough in Jai Bhagwan, who has set the league on fire.
The Rajasthan-born raider has scored 24 points in the competition so far. However, Bhagwan has endured immense hardship in the lead-up to the Pro Kabaddi League as his father passed away before the start of the tournament. This tragic incident had a massive impact on his life as he was in a dark space mentally.
Talking about this journey, the 18-year-old expressed how he couldn’t practice until his elder brother encouraged him to push through this pain and fulfil his father’s dreams. While speaking to IANS, Bhagwan said, "It was a difficult time for us when my father passed away. I had reduced my practice sessions that time, but my elder brother told me to keep practising and keep working hard." The raider further added, "My father wanted to watch me play on television. I have fulfilled one of his dreams. He also wanted me to play for India. My mother was very happy to watch me on television."
Jai Bhagwan, in the same interview, was asked about how he has been able to put up these high-quality performances right from the word go, he talked about he has been in great form since the Khelo India University Games and the preseason with U Mumba was also successful thanks to incredible support staff.
He said, "First, I played in the Khelo India University Games in April-May this year. Then we trained really well during our pre-season camp. Our coach told us not to be worried about anything. I have been able to play freely in the Vivo PKL season because of the U Mumba management."
Jai Bhagwan and U Mumba will be next seen in action against Haryana Steelers on Friday, 21 October. To follow Bhagwan's journey check out SportsTiger as we bring you everything from Kabaddi Live Score to breaking news, interviews etc.