Bengal Warriorz have lost four consecutive matches in PKL 11.
The Telugu Titans clinched a crucial 31-29 victory over the Bengal Warriorz in match 67 of Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) at the Noida Indoor Stadium on Thursday.
Bengal’s coach and captain Fazel Atrachali followed by Telugu Titans captain Vijay Malik and Coach Krishan Kumar Hooda shared their views after the PKL 11 match.
Vijay Malik once again emerged as the star, scoring 14 points that proved vital in resisting a late Bengal Warriorz fightback. This win not only earned the Telugu Titans five crucial points but also propelled them to the top of the PKL 11 table, ahead of the Haryana Steelers, before their upcoming clash with the Bengaluru Bulls. However, for the Bengal Warriorz, it was their fourth consecutive loss in PKL 11.
“In a game, one side will win and the other side will lose, that is obvious. But after continuous losses the team is always demotivated and it is my job to keep them motivated. So we still have time, we will work harder and we have to make a comeback. we have to fight and there is no other option, ” said Captain Fazel Atrachali.
On Maninder Singh’s injury
The match began with the Bengal Warriorz looking sharp, as Pranay Rane and Manjeet earned early raid points. However, the Telugu Titans, spearheaded by the in-form Vijay Malik, seized control. Malik’s three-point raid, which sent Fazel Atrachali and Manjeet to the bench, shifted the momentum. By halftime, the Titans had inflicted an ALL-OUT and led 19-9. Bengal were, however, without their star raider Maninder Singh.
“Both Nitesh and Maninder’s absences have been hurting us, they will for sure play the next match. We had rested them because of an injury scare but they will play the next game for sure,” said Bengal coach.
On the approach forward
In the second half, the Bengal Warriorz tried to fight back with key contributions from Pranay Rane and Nitin Kumar, including an ALL OUT that reduced the deficit to five points. Despite their efforts, Malik’s Super 10 and the Titans’ solid defence ensured a narrow yet significant win, further strengthening their position in PKL 11.
“There is a mental pressure for me and players for sure. We just need one comeback to change the tide, we haven’t given up our hopes yet, ” he concluded.