Tamil Thalaivas Respond to Coach Sanjeev Baliyans Allegations After PKL 12 Exit

Tamil Thalaivas issued a statement denying head coach Sanjeev Baliyan’s claims of interference in team selection during PKL 12. The management asserted that full freedom was given to the coach in all decisions. They also mentioned players had raised concerns about coaching feedback. The team finished 10th and began an internal review process.

As the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 concluded, Tamil Thalaivas found themselves in the spotlight for reasons beyond the mat. Finishing 10th in the standings, the team failed to make the top eight and became embroiled in controversies involving captain Pawan Sehrawat and head coach Sanjeev Baliyan. Sehrawat was released mid-season for alleged disciplinary issues, which he publicly denied, demanding proof from the management.

Later, head coach Sanjeev Baliyan accused the management of interfering in team selections and favoring unfit players over fit ones, claiming he lacked freedom to choose the starting seven. In response, Tamil Thalaivas issued an official statement denying all allegations, asserting that full authority had been granted to the coach regarding team selection, training, and strategy. The management added that several players had raised concerns about inadequate attention from the coaching staff and that these issues were discussed internally.

The statement also criticized Baliyan for speaking to the media after skipping 16 prior press conferences, calling his comments “unsubstantiated.” The franchise expressed regret over the public controversy and confirmed a full review process to rebuild and strengthen the team ahead of the next Pro Kabaddi season.