Haryana Steelers made it to the semifinal for the first time since their inception as they earned a comprehensive 17-point win over Gujarat Giants in the Pro Kabaddi League [PKL10] Eliminators on Monday. In the earlier fixture of the day, Patna Pirates edged past Dabang Delhi to remain on course for a record fourth title.
Haryana Steelers' defence did the trick for them as Mohit Nandal had seven tackle points to his name, while young raider Vinay also excelled with 12 raid points. For Gujarat Giants, they were let down by their defence as they collectively managed only four points in 40 minutes. Haryana Steelers stuck to their game plan and offered Gujarat Giants little to no room to make a comeback, as they sealed a 42-25 win to book their spot in the semifinal. They will next take on defending champions Jaipur Pink Panthers.
Eliminator #1 was a tightly-contested affair as Patna Pirates clinched the win over Dabang Delhi in the very final raid of the match. Both sides exchanged the lead numerous times before Patna Pirates inflicted an all out with less than 40 seconds left to take the lead, and with it, win the match. Dabang Delhi captain had a mammoth 19 points, but it went in vain as he received no support from his secondary raiders and that cost them dear.
Dabang Delhi's decision to field Vishal Bhardwaj in place of Ashish in the left corner and playing Meetu Sharma in crucial raids also hurt them as they missed out on a chance to inch closer to their second title. Patna Pirates will now face last-season's runners-up Puneri Paltan in the semifinal on Wednesday.
(You can re-live the two PKL 10 Eliminators below. Please wait a few seconds for the blog to load. If it still doesn't, please click here)