Kaushik Kumar

Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) outfit Bengaluru Bulls' coach BC Ramesh has conceded that things did not go as per plan in the recently held auctions but hoped that his young players in the new-look squad will deliver the goods when it matters in the sixth edition of the league.

Ramesh, the 2005 Arjuna Awardee is now keen on working closely with the group and improving their skills ahead of the PKL season, starting October 19.

Speaking to IANS at the just-concluded auctions, which witnessed a massive hike in the price tags of players, the Bulls coach said: "We had planned to bag raider Prashant Rai but ended up missing him. We also had money in purse for another raider Siddharth Desai but unfortunately, things messed up and we lost him too."

"To strengthen our defence, we also had eyes on Dharmaraj Cheralathan and Rituraj Korvi. Nevertheless, we have some youngsters now and will work hard with them," Ramesh added.

Commenting on Bengaluru Bulls' chances this season, Ramesh, who was earlier associated with Puneri Paltans believed they are one of the few best teams on paper.

"When we look at the best three-four teams on paper post the auctions, we are one of them. But, we can't sit ideally depending on that," the Bulls coach said.

Revealing the 2015 runners-up team's strategies in the upcoming edition, Ramesh stressed on the need to improve Bulls' defence.

"We will further improve our defence this time as our defenders are ok. We will also look to improve our ankle hold and running catch," stressed the coach.

"The combination will also be changed as per the situation demands," Ramesh added.

Ramesh opined that star raider Rohit Kumar, who was retained by the Bengaluru franchise for Rs 89.1 lakh, has the caliber to deliver an excellent show if he plays by his heart.

(Kaushik Kumar can be contacted at kaushik.k@ians.in)