Chennai, October 2: Puneri Paltan continued their impressive Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 campaign with another nail-biting win, defeating Bengaluru Bulls 6-4 in a tie-breaker after a 29-29 stalemate in regulation time. The victory not only gave the Paltan a double over the Bulls this season but also pushed them to the summit of the points table.
A Battle of Equals in the First Half
The contest started on an even footing, with both teams exchanging blows through quick raids and strong defensive work. Despite the absence of star raider Aslam Inamdar, Puneri Paltan looked sharp from the outset. Abinesh Nadarajan opened their account with a solid tackle, while Aditya Shinde and Aashish Malik ensured the raids kept ticking.
Bengaluru Bulls, led by Iranian raider Alireza Mirzaian, refused to back down and stayed within touching distance. However, Paltan’s defence tilted the balance when they brought down Akash Shinde to inflict the game’s first ALL OUT, handing them a slim but valuable lead. At the 10-minute mark, the scoreboard read 12-9 in Puneri’s favour, and by halftime, they extended it slightly to 17-13.
Defensive Wall Keeps Bulls in Check
The second half saw Puneri Paltan lean on their defensive core to protect their lead. Gurdeep and Gaurav Khatri produced decisive tackles, including a spectacular Super Tackle on Alireza, while the raiding duo of Aditya Shinde and Pankaj Mohite kept the score moving.
The Bulls, however, were far from finished. Aashish Malik and Akash Shinde struck back with crucial raids, and Yogesh anchored the defence to keep the contest alive. Puneri’s defenders absorbed the pressure well, holding onto a narrow 22-19 cushion after 30 minutes.
Bulls’ Comeback Sparks Thriller
The momentum shifted dramatically in the 33rd minute when Bengaluru Bulls inflicted an ALL OUT on Puneri Paltan, seizing a three-point lead—their first of the night. With the game slipping away, Puneri regrouped through Aditya Shinde and Pankaj Mohite, who chipped away at the deficit. Abinesh Nadarajan’s late defensive brilliance ensured the Bulls couldn’t extend their advantage further.
As the clock wound down, the scores remained locked at 29-29, forcing the clash into yet another tie-breaker between the two sides this season.
Puneri Paltan Hold Nerve in Tie-Breaker
In the decider, Puneri Paltan showed their composure under pressure. Early raids from Pankaj and Aditya gave them the edge, while Gaurav Khatri and Abinesh stood tall at the back. Despite a late push from the Bulls, the Paltan sealed the tie-breaker 6-4, completing their second straight tie-breaker win over Bengaluru this season.
The result underlines Puneri’s ability to grind out close contests, showcasing both defensive discipline and raiding depth. With this victory, the former champions climb to the top of the PKL 12 table, strengthening their claim as early favourites for the playoffs.
Upcoming PKL 12 Matches – Friday, October 3
- Match 1: Dabang Delhi K.C. vs UP Yoddhas
- Match 2: Tamil Thalaivas vs Haryana Steelers