Bengaluru Bulls are the first team to be officially out of PKL 11 playoffs race.
Haryana Steelers secured their place in the Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) playoffs with a commanding 37-26 win over Bengaluru Bulls in Match 105 at the Balewadi Stadium on Wednesday.
Bengaluru Bulls’ captain Pardeep Narwal addressed the media after yet another loss, while Haryana’s captain Jaideep alongside coach Manpreet Singh shared their views on the team’s win in PKL 11.
It was a well-rounded performance from the Steelers, led by Vinay and Shivam Patare, who combined for 15 points. The defence also shone, with Jaideep and Rahul contributing four tackle points each, while Mohammadreza Shadloui added six points to cap off a dominant display.
“Manpreet Sir has made a good team. When I played with him, he motivated us a lot, he is still the same, you can see, that he motivates everyone, and explains to them their mistake. He is a very good coach. Haryana are a good team and their defence and offence have been working really well together as a coach,” said Pardeep Narwal.
On Bengaluru Bull’s performance and plan ahead
The game began on a cautious note, with both teams focusing on their defensive strategies. Sanjay and Rahul kept the Haryana Steelers slightly ahead, helping them maintain a narrow 7-6 lead at the end of the first quarter. Mohammadreza Shadloui’s crucial tackle on Jatin and Vinay’s spectacular Super Raid, which wiped out three Bulls players, gave Haryana a firm grip on the game.
“Well we have some four-five games left, we have to get over with them. Bengaluru Bulls aren’t playing like the way they used to or are supposed to, ” said Pardeep.
Despite being out of playoff contention, Bengaluru Bulls displayed resilience. Jatin’s Do-or-Die Raid helped him cross 4000 raid points in PKL 11, a significant milestone. However, Haryana’s relentless defence and timely raids, including an ALL OUT in the second half, ensured their victory.
“Randhir Sir tries to motivate us a lot, he keeps being positive and telling us to focus on the next matches, ” he added.