Pro Kabaddi League 11 semifinal: Patna Pirates aims to maintain winning form against Dabang Delhi
Pro Kabaddi League 11 semifinal: Patna Pirates aims to maintain winning form against Dabang Delhi
The stage is set for an electrifying clash as Dabang Delhi takes on Patna Pirates in the semifinal of Pro Kabaddi League season 11 at the Sree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, Balewadi in Pune on Friday, December 27.
Both teams boast exciting players and are in brilliant form, making this a highly anticipated matchup. While the Pirates are the most successful team in PKL history with three titles, Delhi is searching for its second triumph.
Dabang Delhi, on a 15-game unbeaten streak, will look to extend its PKL record. Led by captain Ashu Malik, its attack has been formidable. While Naveen Kumar gradually regains his peak form after recovering from injuries, this experienced raiding duo gives Delhi an edge. Its raiding arsenal looks well-equipped with promising talents like Vinay Redhu and Ashish N providing strong support.
The leader of Delhi’s defence is right-corner Yogesh Dahiya, who has been a revelation this season, with Ashish Malik and Sandeep Deshwal contributing to the cause. However, the team is heavily reliant on Ashu, who has racked up 18 Super 10s in 22 matches this season.
For the Patna Pirates, the ability of its talismanic duo of Devank Dalal and Ayan Lohchab, to score crucial points and its utilisation of energetic young raiders like Sandeep and Sudhakar will be critical for its success. The onus will be on the young raiding unit to perform at their best under pressure.
Patna edged past U Mumba in the eliminator to make its way to the last four with an all-round performance. The Pirates defence, led by the in-form captain Ankit Jaglan, will be determined to shut down the opposition’s raiders and replicate its performance from the eliminator. Experienced defenders Deepak Singh and Gurdeep will also look to compact the teams’ defensive shape.
Delhi is yet to beat Patna this season and coach Joginder Narwal will have to find a solution to neutralise Patna’s young raiders to achieve the desired result.
