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The Jaipur Pink Panthers reclaimed their position at the top of the leaderboard with a commendable 27-22 victory against Dabang Delhi K.C. during their clash at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium in Delhi. This match further delayed Dabang Delhi K.C.'s qualification for the playoffs, ending their home leg on a subdued note. Arjun Deshwal shone brightly for the Panthers, marking the night with a stellar 10-point performance, while Ashu Malik's valiant effort of 9 points for Delhi ended in vain.
The Panthers showcased an explosive start, rapidly diminishing Delhi's presence on the mat to just four players and swiftly achieving the game's first All-Out to secure a 10-3 lead. Despite a slow start, Dabang Delhi K.C. began to recover, but their raiders' efforts were undermined by a lackluster defensive performance, particularly from Vikrant and Mohit, who failed to secure any successful tackles in the first half. The Panthers capitalized on these weaknesses, entering halftime with a comfortable seven-point advantage.
Arjun Deshwal, the main thorn in Delhi's side, maintained his scoring run, ensuring the Panthers kept their lead intact during the second half, even as Delhi matched them point for point in raids. The game's intensity peaked in the final quarter, with Ashu Malik and Ashish making a formidable push, bringing Delhi within two points of the Panthers with just three minutes left. Malik's remarkable running hand touch on Deshwal momentarily shifted the momentum towards Delhi.
However, the tide turned swiftly as Reza Mirbagheri executed a critical Super Tackle for Jaipur, extending their lead to four points and delivering the decisive blow to Delhi's comeback hopes. The Panthers then expertly managed the remaining time to secure the win and ascend to the league's summit.
This victory not only solidifies the Jaipur Pink Panthers' status as frontrunners in the competition but also highlights the pivotal performances of players like Deshwal and Mirbagheri, whose contributions were instrumental in their team's success. As the playoffs approach, the Panthers' strategic gameplay and resilient defense position them as strong contenders for the title.
Puneri Paltan storms past Bengaluru Bulls
In another contest, Puneri Paltan showcased their playoff-ready form with a commanding 40-31 victory over the Bengaluru Bulls, reinforcing their status as strong contenders for the semi-finals. Despite the Bulls' valiant effort for a late-game rally, Puneri Paltan, led by the exceptional performance of captain Aslam Inamdar and supported by key players, maintained their dominance throughout the match.
From the onset, Puneri Paltan established themselves as the primary force, gaining an early lead. The Bengaluru Bulls, eager for a playoff spot, faced challenges as their raider Sushil was unable to succeed in a crucial Do-or-Die raid. Inamdar, along with Mohit Goyat, spearheaded Puneri Paltan's offensive, proving to be a formidable duo.
The Bulls attempted to bridge the gap towards the end of the first half, with Sushil executing a successful Do-or-Die raid. However, Puneri Paltan's Mohit Goyat showcased his versatility by securing a Super Tackle, further extending their lead to 18-13 at halftime.
The momentum carried by Bengaluru Bulls at the end of the first half dissipated, as Puneri Paltan's Akash Shinde performed a Super Tackle on Vikash Kandola. The Bulls struggled to regain their footing, particularly after another failed Do-or-Die raid by Sushil.
Aslam Inamdar's prowess was on full display in the second half, achieving a Super 10 following a raid that led to a Bengaluru Bulls All-Out. The strategic prowess of Puneri Paltan's raiders, turning defenders like Mohit Goyat and Akash Shinde, was instrumental in widening the score gap to 33-15 before the strategic timeout.
Although Bengaluru Bulls' substitute Bharat scored crucial points in the second half, the substantial lead established by Puneri Paltan proved insurmountable. The Bulls showed resilience, with Sushil's Super Raid in the game's final moments narrowing the score difference, yet it wasn't enough to overturn Puneri Paltan's lead.
This match result significantly impacts Bengaluru Bulls' playoff hopes, while Puneri Paltan continues to solidify their position as a formidable team in the competition. Their strategic gameplay and strong performances across the board highlight their potential for deep playoff success.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
Pro Kabaddi League: Tamil Thalaivas' playoff pursuit bolstered by Narender's Super 10 and Sahil's High five
Pro Kabaddi League: Puneri Paltan seal playoff berth after draw against Dabang Delhi; Patna Pirates win thriller versus Jaipur Pink Panthers
