A stellar defensive performance led by skipper Fazel Atrachali powered the Bengal Warriorz to a commanding 44-29 victory over the Bengaluru Bulls in Match 104 of Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2024 at the Balewadi Stadium on Tuesday. The win kept the Warriorz’s playoff hopes alive while officially eliminating the Bulls from contention.
The Warriorz were dominant from the outset, with Vishwas S stepping up in the absence of star raider Maninder Singh. Vishwas delivered a scintillating performance, racking up 13 points, including a Super 10. Complementing him were defensive stalwarts Nitesh Kumar and Fazel Atrachali, both securing High 5s with seven tackle points each.
The Warriorz took control early, with Vishwas spearheading the attack and their defense orchestrating repeated stops. Bengaluru Bulls were dealt their first ALL OUT six minutes before halftime, thanks to the defensive duo of Nitesh and Fazel, who neutralized the Bulls’ raiders.
Despite a valiant effort by Bengaluru skipper Pardeep Narwal, who managed 5 raid points and executed a stunning Super Raid eliminating Fazel, Nitesh, and Pranay Rane, the lack of support from his teammates proved costly. The Warriorz ended the half with a comfortable 22-12 lead.
The Bengal Warriorz increased their intensity in the second half, with Nitesh Kumar completing his High 5 early on. Vishwas S also completed his Super 10, further solidifying the Warriorz’s grip on the match. Meanwhile, Pardeep Narwal showed his signature “Dubki King” moves, achieving a Super 10 after a spectacular raid that eliminated Nitesh Kumar.
The Bulls suffered their second ALL OUT with 12 minutes left, extending the Warriorz’s lead to 15 points. Fazel Atrachali’s defensive brilliance, including his High 5 performance, ensured that the Bulls had no chance of a comeback.
Key Takeaways
– Bengal Warriorz Defense Shines: Fazel Atrachali and Nitesh Kumar combined for 14 tackle points, dismantling the Bulls’ offense.
– Vishwas S Steps Up: The young raider’s 13-point Super 10 filled the void left by Maninder Singh’s absence.
– Bulls’ Overreliance on Pardeep Narwal: While Pardeep delivered a Super 10, the lack of contributions from other players proved decisive.
What’s Next?
The Bengal Warriorz stay in the playoff hunt, needing to replicate their performance in upcoming matches to secure a spot in the PKL 11 postseason.
For the Bengaluru Bulls, the loss marks a disappointing end to their campaign, with the team falling short of expectations this season.
With this resounding win, the Warriorz have sent a clear message that they are not done yet.
