Three-time champions Patna Pirates recorded a one-sided win against U Mumba by 43-23 to go top of the table in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) season 8. On the other hand, in match 48, Gujarat Giants beat Telugu Titans comprehensively by 40-22 to go seventh in the table. As Titans' poor run in the season continues, they remain the only side yet to win in this season of the PKL.
One way traffic as Pirates embarrass Mumba
An all-round performance from the three-time champion saw them record two all-outs on their opponents in the first half. Neeraj Kumar (8), Prashanth Kumar (7) were the fulcrum for the Bihar-based franchise. Defender Mohammedireza (5) along with substitute Monu (6) saw them dominate their opponents right from the word go.
The Pirates were cruising at half-time with a 10-point lead at the break when the scoreboard read 19-9. The second half was no different as Patna registered their sixth win in eight matches to go top. Abhishek Singh did manage to earn eight points, but that came at a conversion rate of under 50 per cent, as it took 18 raids for him to record the tally for Mumba.
Rakesh turns X-factor in Gujarat Giants win
In match 48, it was the Gujarat Giants who ran riot as they came out on top in another one-sided contest. Rakesh secured 16 points and he proved to be the decisive factor as Gujarat recorded their second win of the campaign. Alongside Rakesh, Mahendra Rajput (6), Parvesh Bhainswal (5) and substitute Rathan K (5) contributed to the win.
With a total of four all-outs in the match, it was the team from Gujarat who had the upper hand in the contest. Rajnish, with 12 points did secure a ‘Super 10’ but his performances were not enough for his team to earn their first win of the season. They are still in hunt for their first win of the season.
The attention now turns to Wednesday (January 12) fixture between Northern giants Haryana Steelers and UP Yoddha's while the second encounter will see Dabang Delhi take on Bengaluru Bulls in match 50 of the PKL. The competition will be reaching its decisive stage as teams look to make to playoffs. Dabang Delhi will have a golden chance to climb back at the top of the pile in less than 24 hours.
