Did Haryana Thunders Make a Dominant Statement with Their 7–2 Victory Over Punjab Royals in PWL 2026?
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Synopsis
In a thrilling start to the PWL 2026, the Haryana Thunders displayed their wrestling prowess by defeating the Punjab Royals 7-2. With standout performances and strategic dominance, they set the tone for a promising season. This victory not only reflects their preparation but also their championship ambitions.
Key Takeaways
- Haryana Thunders demonstrated tactical superiority and scoring efficiency.
- Neha Sangwan's performance stood out, earning her Player of the Match.
- The team showed resilience and control throughout the competition.
- Punjab Royals struggled to maintain momentum against a dominant opponent.
- This victory sets a strong foundation for Haryana's PWL 2026 campaign.
Noida, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Haryana Thunders showcased an impressive start to their Pro Wrestling League (PWL) 2026 journey, overpowering the Punjab Royals with a commanding 7–2 victory during their inaugural match at the Noida Indoor Stadium on Friday evening.
Exhibiting dominance across various weight classes, the Haryana Thunders took charge early in the competition, seamlessly blending tactical precision with continual scoring to emphasize their title aspirations. The Punjab Royals struggled to gain footing as Haryana's wrestlers controlled the pace and trajectory of the match from beginning to end.
The night kicked off with Ashirov Ashraf setting a formidable precedent in the men’s 86kg category, narrowly defeating Tariel G in a tightly fought 6–5 contest.
Although Punjab responded with a win from Chandermohan, who triumphed over Parvinder 13–6 in the men’s 74kg category, Haryana swiftly regained dominance and maintained it throughout.
The highlight of the event was a stellar display by Neha Sangwan, who was rightfully awarded Player of the Match after achieving a flawless 8–0 victory against Punjab captain Roksana Zasina in the women’s 57kg category.
As the momentum shifted favorably towards Haryana, Iryna Koliadenko delivered an emphatic 15–2 win over Ana Godinez in the women’s 62kg category. This was followed by Ankush, who secured a solid 5–2 victory against Chirag in the men’s 57kg bout. Tumur Tulga then put on one of the most dominant performances of the evening, defeating Islam Guseinov 15–0 in the men’s 65kg category, extending Haryana’s lead further.
The women’s 76kg matchup concluded in a fiercely contested 2–2 draw between Kajal and Priya Malik, but any hopes for a late resurgence from Punjab were dashed when Yui Susaki clinched a walkover victory against Hansika Lamba in the women’s 53kg category.
Punjab managed to secure one more win through Dinesh, who overcame Anirudh Gulia 7–3 in the men’s 125kg bout, but the tie was already securely in Haryana’s grasp.
In response to this remarkable opening, Haryana Thunders owner Ms Prerana Banka expressed her pride in the team's mindset and preparation.
“This victory reflects the dedication invested by our wrestlers and support staff over recent months. It’s just the beginning, but the determination displayed tonight embodies what Haryana Thunders represent: fearlessness, discipline, and a hunger for success. We believe this team has the potential to go all the way,” she stated.
With this impressive win over the Punjab Royals, the Haryana Thunders have kicked off their PWL 2026 campaign on an exhilarating note.
Point of View
The match between Haryana Thunders and Punjab Royals highlighted the growing popularity and competitive spirit of wrestling in India. The enthusiasm surrounding the PWL reflects the commitment of teams and athletes to excel in this sport, making it a significant event in the sports calendar. As we follow the Thunders' journey, it’s clear this season promises excitement and fierce competition.
NationPress
18/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
The final score was Haryana Thunders 7, Punjab Royals 2.
Who was named Player of the Match?
Neha Sangwan was awarded Player of the Match for her 8-0 victory.
Where did the match take place?
The match was held at the Noida Indoor Stadium.
What date did the match occur?
The match took place on January 17, 2026.
How did Haryana Thunders perform across weight categories?
Haryana Thunders dominated across various weight categories, controlling the match from start to finish.
