The defending champions Haryana Steelers lock horns with Tamil Thalaivas in Match 44 of Pro Kabaddi League Season 12, setting the stage for a clash of two contrasting styles. While Haryana rely on a balanced, all-round game, the Thalaivas continue to place their hopes on star raider and skipper Arjun Deshwal. Adding to the intrigue, coach Manpreet Singh stands on the cusp of a historic PKL milestone.
Coaching Duel: Manpreet Singh vs Sanjeev Baliyan
This fixture doubles as a tactical chess match between two of PKL’s finest coaches. Haryana’s Manpreet Singh is just one win away from becoming the first coach in league history to notch 100 victories. His journey reflects consistency and adaptability, having guided Gujarat Giants and later the Steelers to multiple finals before lifting the trophy last season.
On the other side, Sanjeev Baliyan boasts two PKL titles with Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers, alongside a strong record of playoff appearances. His ability to mould teams into resilient units makes him one of the most respected tacticians in the league.
Arjun Deshwal: The Lone Warrior
The Thalaivas’ campaign has revolved almost entirely around Arjun Deshwal. The former MVP has been their sole consistent performer, contributing more than half of the team’s raid points this season. His 11 raid points per match underline his dominance, but the team’s overdependence on him has also been exposed, especially in the heavy defeat to Telugu Titans.
Against Haryana, however, Arjun has a strong track record, averaging over 10 raid points in past encounters. Whether he can replicate that against the in-form defensive duo of Rahul Sethpal and Jaideep will be a defining subplot of this contest.
Haryana’s Balanced Attack
Unlike their opponents, the Steelers boast a well-rounded raiding unit. Shivam Patare has stepped up impressively with nearly 9 raid points per game, while Vinay has provided solid support. Their partnership has allowed Haryana to thrive despite Naveen Kumar’s absence, giving the champions multiple attacking options.
Statistically, the Steelers also enjoy a strong defensive presence. With Jaideep and Rahul leading the charge, the team averages over 11 tackle points per match, ranking among the best in PKL 12. Their recent performances against Patna Pirates and Puneri Paltan highlight a defence that is peaking at the right time.
Tamil Thalaivas: Inconsistent Yet Dangerous
The Thalaivas have alternated between flashes of brilliance and costly lapses. Wins against Bengal Warriorz and Bengaluru Bulls showcased their potential, but heavy defeats – particularly against Telugu Titans – exposed glaring defensive weaknesses. Nitesh Kumar and Ronak need to rediscover form if they are to provide stability against Haryana’s dual-threat raiders.
Head-to-Head Record
- Matches: 13
- Haryana Steelers: 8 wins
- Tamil Thalaivas: 2 wins
- Tied: 3
Key Battles to Watch
- Arjun Deshwal vs Jaideep/Rahul Sethpal – Can Haryana’s defensive wall contain the league’s most prolific raider?
- Shivam Patare & Vinay vs Nitesh Kumar & Ronak – A battle of consistency vs inconsistency in the Thalaivas’ defence.
- Coaches’ duel – Manpreet eyeing history, Baliyan searching for tactical answers.
Match Details
- Fixture: Haryana Steelers vs Tamil Thalaivas, Match 44 – PKL Season 12
- Date: Saturday, 20th September 2025
- Time: 9:00 PM IST
- Venue: SMS Indoor Stadium, Jaipur