Bengaluru Bulls vs Dabang Delhi: Three key battles to watch out for

Published at :December 12, 2022 at 8:49 PM

Modified at :December 13, 2023 at 7:31 AM

(Courtesy : PKL Media)

Both teams meet in the PKL 9 playoffs eliminator for a place in the semi-final.

Bengaluru Bulls will face Dabang Delhi KC in the first eliminator of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) season 9 playoffs. Both teams have good quality in the raiding department. It will be the defence that will play a massive role in deciding the winner. It will also be a battle between the lead raiders Bharat and Naveen Kumar.

Bengaluru Bulls vs Dabang Delhi key-battles

Vijay Malik vs Saurabh Nandal

Saurabh Nandal with 53 tackle points is the lead defender for Bengaluru Bulls. He will be taking on Vijay Malik who is a versatile raider. Vijay Malik raids on both flanks but majorly uses the left side for scoring both touch and bonus points. Nandal has scored the most tackle points for Bengaluru Bulls.

However, his side hasn’t looked consistent throughout. But they can come good in the playoffs having the experience of already playing in the knockouts.

Bharat vs Sandeep Dhull

This will be the battle to watch out for amongst all the battles. Sandeep Dhull is known for his ankle hold and Bharat is active in scoring crucial bonus points. Sandeep Dhull, after making a comeback into the team, has been a much-improved player. His combination with Amit Hooda has been the key to Dabang Delhi's success.

Both Hooda and Dhull have previously represented Jaipur Pink Panthers which is making the combo successful. Bharat, on the other hand, is the primary raider and is closing the gap to become the league's top raider only behind Arjun Deshwal.

Naveen Kumar vs Aman

Aman in the early stages of the league phase had the least number of tackle points with more unsuccessful tackles. Coach Randhir Singh Sehrawat put full hopes on the defender and has reaped good rewards. Aman scored a high-five in the last encounter which shall boost his confidence.

He will be up against Naveen “Express” — Dabang Delhi’s primary raider. Naveen Kumar has good instinctive skills which Aman should be wary of.