Should Gujarat Giants Provide More Chances to Shadloui?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shadloui needs more opportunities to regain confidence.
- The Gujarat Giants must learn from their defensive mistakes.
- Nitin Dhankhar showcased remarkable skill and composure.
- Strategic decisions were pivotal in determining the match outcome.
- Team experience plays a crucial role in high-pressure situations.
Vizag, Sep 10 (NationPress) Former Pro Kabaddi League athlete Rishank Devadiga expressed his views regarding the performance of Gujarat Giants captain Mohammadreza Shadloui in the current season. He noted that the Iranian seems to be experiencing frustration and emphasized the necessity for the team to provide him with additional opportunities to restore his rhythm and confidence.
The Giants fought valiantly in a thrilling encounter against the Jaipur Pink Panthers, ultimately losing by the slimmest of margins during the golden raid on Tuesday.
"I believe Gujarat lacks a suitable replacement for Shadloui. He is a significant player, and his history supports that claim. However, at this moment, he appears to be frustrated, which is impacting his performance. A defender like him requires early successes in matches to bolster confidence.
"If he goes 20 minutes without achieving a single tackle point, the pressure begins to build, and that was evident during the match. Gujarat should grant him more chances to regain his rhythm and confidence," Rishank stated on JioHotstar.
Reflecting on the Giants' defeat, Rishank mentioned, "Rakesh Sungroya nearly secured the match for Gujarat with an all-out when they were ahead by five or six points with just three minutes remaining. At that moment, I was convinced Gujarat would triumph. Yet, experience is crucial in such situations, and Gujarat’s defense displayed a lack of experience by repeatedly conceding points. Nitin Dhankhar remained composed and continued to score quickly. Had Gujarat’s defense exhibited the same level of patience, this match could have easily turned in their favor."
It was a moment of validation for Nitin Kumar, whose 15 points propelled the Jaipur Pink Panthers to victory in a tie-breaker – their second win this season – against the Gujarat Giants at Vishwanadh Sports Club on Tuesday.
Analyzing the Jaipur Pink Panthers' victory, Rishank commented, "It was an exhilarating match, and Gujarat also deserves recognition for their strong comeback in the final three minutes. However, Nitin Dhankhar was the star of the show. He has consistently performed at a high level, showcasing responsibility and maturity.
"Jaipur Pink Panthers executed their tactics flawlessly, particularly during the Golden Raid, where they avoided the bonus, knowing Shadloui was on the mat. This strategic decision was instrumental in securing their victory.
"Even without the usual support of Sahil Satpal, Nitin dominated the game with 22 raids, accumulating 15 raid points. His reliable scoring kept Jaipur in the game, providing them with the opportunity to recover. He was exceptional.