PKL 11: Jaipur Pink Panthers Secure Playoff Spot with Narrow Victory Over Bengal Warriorz
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Pune, Dec 20 (NationPress) The Jaipur Pink Panthers battled fiercely and came from behind to secure a victory against the Bengal Warriorz in a Season 11 match of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL), confirming their spot in the Playoffs at the Badminton Hall of the Balewadi Sports Complex on Friday. The Jaipur Pink Panthers became the fifth team to qualify for the Playoffs, winning with a score of 31-28.
For the Jaipur Pink Panthers, Arjun Deshwal scored nine points while Abhijeet Malik contributed seven points, and Reza Mirbagheri achieved a High-5. This victory also means that the Puneri Paltan have been eliminated from contention for a Playoff berth.
The Bengal Warriorz started the match with urgency, quickly gaining a slight lead in the opening minutes. Despite this, the Jaipur Pink Panthers, focused on securing their qualification for the PKL Playoffs, remained close and adopted a cautious strategy. Arjun Rathi led the offensive efforts for the Bengal Warriorz, while their defenders held firm.
As the first half progressed, the Bengal Warriorz extended their lead to six points within the first nine minutes. However, Abhijeet Malik played a crucial role in narrowing the gap to just two points. The Jaipur Pink Panthers' defense struggled to contain Pranay Rane and Arjun Rathi.
The Bengal Warriorz defense was solid on the day, executing an All Out and increasing their lead to seven points. Arjun Rathi continued his strong performance, and at halftime, the Bengal Warriorz led 19-9.
The Jaipur Pink Panthers began the second half with a couple of Super Tackles, yet the Bengal Warriorz maintained control. By the 26th minute, Arjun Deshwal had helped reduce the deficit to six points, as the Jaipur Pink Panthers fought their way back into contention.
The champions of Season 9 saw their defenders, Reza Mirbagheri and Ankush Rathee, shift into high gear while Arjun Deshwal showcased his skills. As the match approached the half-hour mark, the Bengal Warriorz held a three-point lead, but the momentum was shifting.
With less than eight minutes remaining, the Jaipur Pink Panthers executed an All Out on their rivals, pulling ahead. Both teams engaged in an intense battle in the closing minutes. A two-point raid from Pranay Rane brought the Bengal Warriorz back to a tie with the Jaipur Pink Panthers at 27 points, with just three minutes left.
However, the Jaipur Pink Panthers rallied back, surging ahead by three points thanks to some exceptional defending. Ultimately, the Jaipur Pink Panthers maintained their composure in the dying moments of the match, securing a narrow yet significant victory.
