The Tamil Thalaivas wrapped up their home leg in sensational fashion, thrashing Patna Pirates 56-37 at the SDAT Multi-Purpose Indoor Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday. The night belonged to Arjun Deshwal, who delivered a career-best 26 points, his eighth Super 10 of the season and the 71st of his PKL career, climbing to third on the all-time list for most Super 10s.
It was also a team milestone for the Thalaivas, whose 56 points marked the highest team score in a single match this season. Alongside Deshwal, Nitesh Kumar stood tall in defence with a High Five, while Narender Kandola (6 points) and Aashish (5 points) added crucial support.
For the Pirates, Ayan Lohchab and Ankit Rana battled hard to register Super 10s, but their efforts were overshadowed by the Thalaivas’ all-round dominance.
Pirates Start Strong, But Thalaivas Hit Back
The game began with both sides trading blows as Deshwal and Lohchab got off the mark quickly. Lohchab’s Super Raid gave Patna an early edge, and with Ankit Rana chipping in, the visitors forced the first All Out, taking a four-point lead.
But the Thalaivas bounced back swiftly. Inspired by defensive brilliance from Nitesh Kumar and Aashish, they levelled the scores before turning the tide with an All Out of their own. With Arjun Deshwal finding rhythm, the hosts surged ahead, ending the first half with a commanding 30-19 lead after their second All Out.
Deshwal Turns on the Heat
The second half belonged to Arjun Deshwal. Every raid he attempted piled pressure on the Pirates, while Nitesh Kumar’s defensive masterclass ensured no comeback was possible. The Thalaivas secured their third All Out with Aashish’s tackle, stretching their lead to 43-26.
Even as Ayan Lohchab produced a late four-point Super Raid to lift spirits in the Pirates’ camp, Deshwal’s unstoppable run sealed the game. His 26 points not only set a new career-high but also stood as the best individual performance by a raider this season.
A Historic Night in Chennai
With this 19-point victory, the Tamil Thalaivas not only strengthened their campaign but also showcased their depth across attack and defence. For Deshwal, it was a performance that underlined his reputation as one of the league’s most lethal raiders.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Thalaivas beat Patna Pirates 56-37 in Chennai.
- Arjun Deshwal scored a career-best 26 points, recording his 71st Super 10.
- Thalaivas’ 56 points is the highest team total of PKL 12 so far.
- Nitesh Kumar completed a High Five, while Narender Kandola and Aashish chipped in with valuable points.
- Pirates’ Ayan Lohchab and Ankit Rana scored Super 10s, but couldn’t prevent a heavy defeat.