PKL 10 Semifinal 1: Can Patna Pirates stop Puneri Paltan juggernaut? Keys to success

It is the battle of West vs East to qualify for the finals of season 10.

There are just three games left in season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL 10) and in the first semifinals, it will be the Puneri Paltan from the top of the points table against Patna Pirates, who were the sixth-placed side at the end of the league stage. Both sides are in fine form going into the game. But each day is fresh, and to proceed, they would need to be on their toes. Let’s discuss the secret to both parties’ success.

Patna Pirates

Support from Secondary Raiders

Patna Pirates are in the semifinals of this season thanks to the contribution of their secondary Raiders in the first eliminator. While their primary Raider Sachin was controlling for the most part of the game and was tired going into the final minutes. In the dying minutes, the coach directed the secondary Raiders to go with their fresh legs and both Sandeep Kumar and Manjeet scored crucial points to take the game. The Pirates will have to display the same intent to qualify for the finals.

Corner Duo’s Consistency

The Strength of Patna Pirates lies in their defense with the duo of Krishan Dhull in the right corner and Ankit in the left corner being the primary guards. They might not have had a great game in the eliminator but they will have a huge role to play in stopping the Puneri Paltans. Given the form and standards they have set, last year’s finalists would be digging a hole if they didn’t plan for the duo.

Sachin Tanwar – The Leader

Sachin Tanwar assumed the role of skipper for the first time this season and made sure the three-time champions made it to the playoffs for a record seventh time. This season, he has been their top raider, and it was the case in the eliminator as well. His leadership skills were appreciated when he trusted Manjeet for the final raid in the eliminator who delivered it. He will again be key against Puneri Paltan against whom he top-scored in both games during the league stage.

Puneri Paltan

All-Round Duo of Aslam and Shadloui

During the auction, the Puneri Paltan forced other teams to watch helplessly as they executed a cunning plan to swap the seasoned Iranian named Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyanneh. By designating Aslam Inamdar as their captain, the Paltan have demonstrated utter dominance this season. With two best all-rounders at the top of the prowess it has been hard to stop the duo and they will again be key to taking the Paltans to the finals.

Young and Relentless Defense

In a league that is four months long with constant travel, a team must need fresh legs to keep the competitive level going. Such is the defense of Pune comprising of Abinesh Nadarajan, Gaurav Khatri, and Shadloui which has displayed a constant threat throughout the season. Not many Raiders have tasted success against them and it would take a herculean effort for Sachin Tanwar & co. to overcome this hurdle.

Avoiding Complacency

Puneri Paltan have nearly had a perfect tournament so far as they won 17 of the 22 games played. They ended up losing only two games while this might sound like the form they are in, it also shows that their plan A has worked on most occasions. They rarely have tested their bench strength this season. With the tournament at its final stage, they can’t afford any complacency. Coach BC Ramesh and the players should give their best and not take anything lightly.

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