APL Season 2: Rajputana Royals thrash Chero Archers 6-0 for back-to-back wins
Synopsis
Rajputana Royals silenced the doubters with a flawless 6-0 demolition of high-flying Chero Archers in APL Season 2 — their second straight win after a three-match losing skid. Compound world No. 1 Ella Gibson's perfect 60/60 and Mete Gazoz's match-sealing composure underlined why the defending champions remain the team to beat heading into the business end of the tournament.
Key Takeaways
Rajputana Royals beat Chero Archers 6-0 in APL Season 2 at People's Plaza, Hyderabad on 13 October .
The win was the Royals' second in a row after three consecutive defeats, moving them to six points in the standings.
1 Ella Gibson delivered a perfect 60 out of 60 , never leaving the 10-ring.
Tokyo Olympic champion Mete Gazoz sealed the decisive third set with a clutch 9.
Sangeeta , making her APL debut in place of Ankita Bhakat , scored a crucial 10 in the third set.
The APL grand finale is scheduled for 18 October , featuring the top four teams.
Rajputana Royals, the defending champions of the Archery Premier League (APL), registered a dominant 6-0 victory over the Chero Archers in Season 2 of the tournament at People's Plaza, Hyderabad on Tuesday, 13 October. The comprehensive win — without dropping a single set — handed the Royals back-to-back victories after a difficult patch that had seen them suffer three consecutive defeats.
Royals Dominate Without Dropping a Set
The Royals were clinical from the opening set, outscoring Chero in every exchange without conceding a set point. The victory moved Rajputana Royals to six points on the APL standings, keeping their semifinal hopes firmly alive. Chero Archers also remained on six points but will rue the missed opportunity to pull clear.
The standout performer was compound world No. 1 Ella Gibson, who delivered a flawless outing — scoring a perfect 60 out of 60 by staying in the 10-ring throughout her entire performance.
How the Sets Unfolded
Chero made a tactical switch ahead of the contest, reinstating recurve international archer Casey Kaufhold in place of Kumkum Mohod. However, the American's costly opening 7 proved expensive as the Royals took the first set 74-73. The second set again went to the Royals, 76-75, with Chero's compound archers conceding ground through a pair of 9s.
The third set was tighter, finishing level at 58-58 after six arrows apiece. The pivotal moment came when Atanu Das — otherwise in fine form this season — hit an uncharacteristic 8. Royals debutant Sangeeta, playing her first match of the season in place of Ankita Bhakat, answered with a sensational 10. Needing an 8 to seal the set, Tokyo Olympic champion Mete Gazoz delivered a composed 9, triggering his signature celebration and a round of thigh-fives with teammates.
What Gazoz Said After the Win
An ebullient Gazoz was in playful mood post-match. 'We didn't start well over the first four days. I guess everybody misses us because I think the APL needs more energy and more dancing and now we're giving that,' he said.
About the Archery Premier League
The APL is the world's first franchise-based archery league, initiated by the Archery Association of India. Season 2 features six teams and 48 archers — 36 Indians and 12 elite international stars. All matches are being held at People's Plaza, Hyderabad, with the league culminating on 18 October in a grand finale featuring the top four sides in the semifinals followed by the title clash.
Wednesday's Fixtures
Three contests are lined up for Wednesday. Chero Archers face Prithviraaj Yodhas in what promises to be a high-tension rematch — their previous encounter required multiple Sudden Death situations before the Yodhas prevailed. Kakatiya Knights then take on the in-form Rajputana Royals, before the day wraps up with a clash between Chola Chiefs and Mighty Marathas.
Point of View
Anchored by Ella Gibson's rare perfect round. Yet the more intriguing subplot is Chero's tactical gamble of benching Kumkum Mohod for Casey Kaufhold backfiring on a day when their recurve and compound archers alike leaked crucial points. With both sides locked on six points, Wednesday's fixture list could reshuffle the semifinal picture entirely. The APL's appeal as a spectacle rests on these tight standings — and Gazoz's post-match showmanship is a reminder that the league is selling entertainment as much as elite sport.
NationPress
13 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result of the Rajputana Royals vs Chero Archers match in APL Season 2?
Rajputana Royals defeated Chero Archers 6-0 on 13 October at People's Plaza, Hyderabad, winning all three sets without conceding a single point. It was the Royals' second consecutive victory after three straight losses.
Who was the star performer for Rajputana Royals against Chero Archers?
Compound world No. 1 Ella Gibson was the standout performer, scoring a perfect 60 out of 60 by staying in the 10-ring throughout all her arrows. Tokyo Olympic champion Mete Gazoz also delivered a composed 9 to seal the third set.
What is the Archery Premier League (APL)?
The APL is the world's first franchise-based archery league, initiated by the Archery Association of India. Season 2 features six teams and 48 archers — 36 Indians and 12 elite international stars — competing at People's Plaza in Hyderabad, with the grand finale on 18 October.
Where do Rajputana Royals stand in the APL Season 2 standings after this win?
The Royals moved to six points following the 6-0 win, keeping them firmly in contention for the semifinals. Chero Archers also remain on six points despite the defeat.
What matches are scheduled for Wednesday in APL Season 2?
Wednesday features three matches: Chero Archers vs Prithviraaj Yodhas, Kakatiya Knights vs Rajputana Royals, and Chola Chiefs vs Mighty Marathas, all at People's Plaza, Hyderabad.
