Chennai – Gujarat Giants finally broke free from the bottom of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 table with a commanding 47–40 victory over Bengal Warriorz at the SDAT Multi Purpose Indoor Stadium on Saturday. Skipper Rakesh Sungroya delivered a captain’s performance with 18 raid points, while all-round contributions from Ankit Dahiya, Visvanth V, and Mohammadreza Shadloui sealed the result.
For Bengal, it was yet another night of Devank Dalal brilliance without reward. The star raider notched up a historic 25 raid points, becoming the first player in PKL history to score 20+ points in three consecutive matches. But with little support around him, his heroics went in vain.
Giants Dominate Early With Triple All Outs
The Giants wasted no time in stamping authority on the contest. Rakesh led from the front with sharp raids, supported by Shadloui’s defensive solidity. Gujarat’s pressure paid off early as they inflicted the first All Out inside the opening quarter, racing to a 14–5 lead.
Their dominance only grew from there. Rakesh dazzled with repeated successful raids, Shadloui showcased his dual skills, and Ankit Dahiya chipped in with crucial points. By halftime, Gujarat had scripted PKL history – the first team in Season 12 to inflict three All Outs in the first 20 minutes – while also recording the highest first-half score of the season (31–12).
Warriorz Fight Back Through Devank
After being blown away in the first half, Bengal Warriorz came out with renewed spirit in the third quarter. Devank continued to raid fearlessly, supported by Punit Kumar and Sushil Kambrekar, as they began to chip away at the lead.
Their persistence was rewarded when they finally All Outed Gujarat late in the quarter, a rare blemish in an otherwise dominant performance by the Giants. Still, the scoreboard remained firmly in Gujarat’s favor, with the score reading 39–25 after three quarters.
Devank’s Lone Battle Not Enough
The final quarter turned into the Devank show. The Bengal skipper raided relentlessly, scoring touch points almost at will to drag his team closer. His consistency kept the Gujarat defense under constant pressure, and the Warriorz closed the gap to within single digits.
However, Rakesh’s leadership ensured the Giants did not crumble under the late assault. Timely contributions from Ankit Dahiya and Shadloui steadied the ship as Gujarat managed the clock smartly. The early cushion proved decisive as the Giants closed out a 47–40 win despite losing the last quarter.
Key Takeaways
- Rakesh Sungroya’s 18-point masterclass laid the foundation for Gujarat’s crucial win.
- Devank Dalal’s 25 points etched his name in PKL history, but lack of support hurt Bengal’s chances.
- Gujarat became the first team to inflict three All Outs in a single half this season, showing their ability to dominate early.
- Bengal Warriorz’ over-dependence on Devank remains their biggest weakness as no other raider crossed five points.
The victory lifts Gujarat Giants off the foot of the table, reigniting their playoff hopes, while Bengal Warriorz will be left ruing another wasted night of Devank’s genius.