Sports
Fazel Atrachali Shatters Records with 500 Tackle Points to Become PKL’s Greatest Defender Ever
The Iranian superstar makes history in the Pro Kabaddi League, becoming the first player to cross 500 tackle points and strengthening his case as the league’s all-time great.
Fazel Atrachali has once again etched his name into the annals of Pro Kabaddi League history. During a gripping match between Bengal Warriorz and Puneri Paltan, the Iranian kabaddi titan became the first player ever to reach the coveted 500 tackle point milestone — a feat that reinforces his legacy as the PKL’s greatest defender.
The historic moment came in the first half of the match, when Fazel executed a textbook tackle on Puneri Paltan’s raider Mohit Goyat. That move not only halted Goyat but also secured Fazel’s place atop the PKL’s all-time defensive leaderboard.
With a career tally of 500 tackle points in 173 matches, Fazel boasts an extraordinary average of nearly three tackles per game, a level of consistency few have matched. He now leads the elite club of defenders in the league, ahead of Surjeet Singh with 413 tackle points and Manjeet Chhillar with 391.
PKL 2024: Fazel Atrachali becomes first Pro Kabaddi League player to reach 500 career tackle points during Bengal Warriorz vs Puneri Paltan
Since his debut in Season 2 with U Mumba, where he immediately clinched the title, Fazel has played a defining role in every team he’s represented — including Patna Pirates, Gujarat Giants, Puneri Paltan, and now Bengal Warriorz. Under his captaincy, teams have not only won championships but consistently reached the finals, a testament to his unmatched leadership on and off the mat.
His leadership style, rooted in unwavering support for his teammates, has been as vital as his technical prowess. He’s also the only kabaddi player to represent Iran in four Asian Games, further underlining his international stature.
Fazel Atrachali (l) of Bengal Warriorz in action against Arjun Deswal of Jaipir Pink Panthers. | Photo Credit: PKL
Fazel’s ability to read the game, anticipate raider movements, and maintain composure in high-pressure moments makes him nearly impenetrable in the left-corner position. Beyond the numbers, his presence transforms defensive units into championship contenders.
As PKL 2024 unfolds, one thing is clear — Fazel Atrachali is not just the king of tackles, but the beating heart of kabaddi’s modern era.