Star raider’s Super 10 inspires Pirates’ 36-28 win in Chennai
Patna Pirates showcased grit and balance to earn a much-needed 36-28 victory over UP Yoddhas in the Pro Kabaddi League 2025, with Ayan Lohchab leading from the front with 15 raid points. The three-time champions, who started the night at the foot of the table, produced a complete team performance to turn around an early deficit and climb upward in the standings.
For Ayan, it was a special outing as he not only secured yet another Super 10 but also crossed the 300 career raid points milestone. In defence, Navdeep’s High Five proved decisive, while the Yoddhas’ lone highlight came from Gagan Gowda’s Super 10, which went in vain.
Gagan’s Explosive Start
The contest began at a frenetic pace, with UP Yoddhas striking first. Gagan Gowda was unstoppable in the opening minutes, racking up nine raid points from just four raids, including a stunning Super Raid that sent Ankit Kumar, Navdeep, and Balaji D packing.
Mahender Singh backed him up with a sharp tackle on Sudhakar M, helping the Yoddhas establish an early four-point cushion at 12-8 after the opening 10 minutes.
Ayan Turns the Tide
Just when UP looked in control, Ayan Lohchab shifted gears. His sharp footwork and daring raids dismantled the Yoddhas’ defensive line, dismissing Sumit, Bhavani Rajput, and Mahender Singh in quick succession.
As Gagan’s momentum slowed, Patna Pirates found their rhythm. A Super Tackle from Deepak on Bhavani ignited belief, and with defensive support from Ankit, the Pirates wrestled back control. At half-time, they led 16-14, overturning the early deficit.
Pirates Inflict All Out
The second half was all about Patna’s composure and all-round execution. Ayan continued to thrive in Do-or-Die raids, his speed and anticipation keeping the scoreboard ticking. With support from Deepak and Ankit in defence, the Pirates enforced the game’s first All Out on UP Yoddhas, stretching their lead further.
Navdeep grew into the contest, marshalling the defensive unit with authority to complete a well-earned High Five. Despite Shivam and Bhavani picking up occasional points for the Yoddhas, they lacked the cutting edge to close the gap.
Ayan Seals It with a Milestone
The closing stages saw Patna manage the clock with maturity, refusing to allow the Yoddhas a comeback. Ayan, the night’s standout, completed his 15-point haul and crossed the 300 career point mark in PKL, a testament to his consistency this season.
Though Gagan’s Super 10 and Mahender’s defensive efforts kept UP afloat, the lack of support from others proved costly. In contrast, the Pirates’ blend of raiding firepower and defensive solidity delivered them an eight-point triumph that could well mark the turning point of their campaign.
Analysis: Pirates Back in the Hunt
Patna’s ability to regroup after a poor start showed their mental strength. With Ayan in peak form and Navdeep anchoring the defence, they look ready to shed their early-season struggles. The win also lifted them off the bottom, injecting fresh momentum into their playoff aspirations.