PKL 11: Pardeep Narwal admits he is not fully fit

Bengaluru Bulls have now lost 11 of their 13 games in PKL 11.

The Haryana Steelers returned to form with a solid 32-26 victory over the Bengaluru Bulls in Match 68 of Pro Kabaddi 2024 (PKL 11) at the Noida Indoor Stadium on Thursday.

Haryana Steelers’ captain Rahul Sethpal and coach Manpreet Singh followed by Bengaluru’s captain Pardeep Narwal shared their view after the PKL 11 match.

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On youngsters and upcoming matches in PKL 11

Vinay’s Super 10 stole the spotlight as the Steelers climbed back to the top of the PKL 11 table. Meanwhile, the Bengaluru Bulls’ winless streak stretched to five matches, despite commendable efforts from Akshit and Nitin Rawal.

“Akshit had played well last season too, and the same this season. Now with the number of games left we will give chances to young players like Akshit and Pankaj. In defence, Nitin Rawal is doing very well, way better than others in the team,” said captain Pardeep Narwal.

On Pardeep Narwal’s injury and fitness

The game began with Vinay scoring the first four points for the Haryana Steelers, while Pardeep Narwal opened Bengaluru’s account. But the star raider didn’t look in his form, even for last two matches he looked to be in discomfort.

“No my injury hasn’t healed completely, its still there a little. Had I been completely fit, I would have played a different game. But I am still playing because I am a senior and my team needs me right now, ” admitted Pardeep Narwal.

On Harayana Steeler’s form

Haryana Steelers quickly took control, extending their lead to five points through Shivam Patare’s defensive prowess. Mohammadreza Shadloui then inflicted an ALL OUT on the Bulls, doubling the Steelers’ advantage. By halftime, Bengaluru trailed 12-21 despite Akshit’s late Do-or-Die Raid success.

The second half saw Jai Bhagwan ignite a brief Bengaluru comeback with a raid on Shadloui and an ALL OUT that cut the deficit to five points. However, Vinay’s relentless raiding ensured the Steelers stayed ahead. Even as Akshit kept Bengaluru in contention, they struggled to close the gap.

Super Tackles gave the Bulls fleeting hope, but the Steelers’ consistent answers, led by Vinay, secured a six-point victory. The win reinforced their dominance in PKL 11, keeping them firmly atop the table.

“When in a team the defence works well, automatically the raiders perform well. Because you know even when you get out, you know that the defence will bring you back, so yeah that is how a team works well, ” concluded coach Manpreet Singh.

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