PKL 11: Remaining matches will be do-or-die for us, says Tamil Thalaivas captain Nitesh Kumar

Patna Pirates move to the second spot in PKL 11.

Patna Pirates secured a vital 42-38 win against Tamil Thalaivas in a thrilling Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) encounter at the Balewadi Sports Complex in Pune.

Patna Pirates coach, captain Ankit Jaglan, and star raiders Ayan and Devank followed by Tamil Thalaivas captain as well as coach shared their views on the PKL 11 match.

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Patna Pirates coach on road to playoffs:

Devank and Ayan led the charge for the three-time champions, scoring 12 and 13 points, respectively, while Shubham Shinde chipped in with a High 5. For Tamil Thalaivas, Moein Shafaghi stood out with 11 points, and Sachin contributed 8, but their efforts fell just short as the team teeters on the brink of elimination from the playoff race.

“All the matches in the league are important. We still have four matches to go so the pressure is a little less on us right now, and we will come good preparation for the next match, ” said Patna Pirates coach.

“We have played 18 matches, so are not taking pressure right now. But if we want to keep the second position in the table we have to win all the remaining matches,” said Devank on the same.

On Tamil Thalaivas’ chances of reaching PKL 11 playoffs

Patna Pirates started strongly, with Devank and Ayan racing their team to an early lead. An all-out midway through the first half extended their advantage to seven points. Tamil Thalaivas tried to fight back through Moein Shafaghi and Sachin, but the Pirates still held a 20-15 lead at halftime.

“All the matches were important, today’s match was important too but we lost it. The remaining matches will be do-or-die for us,” said Tamil Thalaivas’ star Nitesh Kumar.

“The upcoming match against Jaipur Pink Panther is a do-or-die one for us, and we have to win it, ” echoed Tamil Thalaivas coach.

In the second half, the Thalaivas showed promise, cutting the deficit to four points thanks to their defence and Sachin’s raids. However, Devank and Ayan struck again, both completing Super 10s to maintain the Pirates’ edge. Despite a late ALL OUT by Tamil Thalaivas, the Pirates held their nerve in the final minutes to claim an important PKL 11 victory and boost their playoff hopes.

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