नवीनतम
Jaipur Pink Panthers qualify for PKL Playoffs
PUNE [Maha Media]: The Jaipur Pink Panthers fought hard and came from behind to defeat the Bengal Warriorz and confirm qualification for the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 Playoffs, in the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex here. The Jaipur Pink Panthers, who are the fifth team to progress to the Playoffs, won by a scoreline of 31-28 on Friday night. For Jaipur Pink Panthers, Arjun Deshwal got 9 points while Abhijeet Malik added 7. The win for the Jaipur Pink Panthers also means that the Puneri Paltan are out of the race for a Playoffs berth.
The Bengal Warriorz came out of the blocks quicker than their opponents, as they moved into a slender lead within the first few minutes. The Jaipur Pink Panthers, who had qualification for the PKL Playoffs in their mind, stayed within touching distance and were being cautious in their approach. For the Bengal Warriorz, it was Arjun Rathi who was leading the way in attack whilst the defenders were holding fort as well. As the half wore on, the Bengal Warriorz were building on their lead and had moved into a 6- point lead within the first 9 minutes. But in the next couple of minutes, Abhijeet Malik helped bring the deficit down to a 2-point one. The Jaipur Pink Panthers’ defence wasn’t able to contain Pranay Rane and Arjun Rathi. But the Bengal Warriorz’s defence was having a good day, and they inflicted an All-Out and stretched the lead to a 7-point one. Arjun Rathi continued the good work and at the break, the Bengal Warriorz led 19-9.
The Jaipur Pink Panthers began the second half with a couple of Super Tackles but it was the Bengal Warriorz, who were still in the box seat. By the 26th minute, Arjun Deshwal had helped cut the deficit down to 6 points, and the Jaipur Pink Panthers were clawing their way back into the game. Reza Mirbagheri and Ankush Rathee suddenly flicked a switch, whilst Arjun Deshwal was doing what he does best. At the half-hour mark, the Bengal Warriorz led by 3 points, and the momentum was starting to go the other way.
