Matchday 59 of the Pro Kabaddi League 2024 saw Haryana Steelers taking on UP Yoddhas in today's first match at the Badminton Hall in the Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune, while in the second clash of the day Jaipur Pink Panthers had face off against Bengaluru Bulls.UP Yoddhas secured a cruicial win over Haryana Steelers to push themselves ahead in the playoffs race, while Jaipur Pink Panthers also made a strong case with a win over Bengaluru Bulls.
PKL 2024 first match on December 17: Haryana Steelers vs UP Yoddhas
UP Yoddhas secured a crucial 31-24 victory over Haryana Steelers on Maonday, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Bhavani Rajput was the standout performer, scoring 11 points, including a crucial Super Raid that led to an all out and leveled the scores. This win marked the Yoddhas’ seventh consecutive unbeaten match, moving them to third on the points table.
Haryana Steelers started strong, with Vinay’s Do-Or-Die raid sending Sumit and Mahender Singh off the mat. However, UP Yoddhas quickly responded with Mohammadreza Kaboudrahangi’s tackle on Shivam Patare and Bhavani Rajput’s strike on Sanjay. The game saw intense back-and-forth action, with both teams showcasing excellent skills.
The first half ended with a narrow 15-13 lead for UP Yoddhas. The momentum shifted in the second half as Bhavani Rajput led his team to an all out, reducing Haryana Steelers to just three points in the third quarter. Rajput’s Super 10, along with key tackles, secured an unassailable lead for UP Yoddhas. Despite strong efforts from Vishal Tate and Shivam Patare, Haryana Steelers were unable to recover, suffering their second consecutive loss by 7 points.
PKL 2024 second match on December 17: Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Bengaluru Bulls
Jaipur Pink Panthers defeated Bengaluru Bulls 35-26 in the second match of the night, securing a vital win in the Pro Kabaddi League 2024. Jaipur dominated the first three quarters, leading 9-6, 6-5, and 6-6, with a commanding 14-9 score in the final quarter to seal the victory. The win saw Jaipur jump to the fifth spot on the points table, boosting their playoff hopes. Meanwhile, Bengaluru Bulls remain in 11th place, struggling to find form. Jaipur’s consistent performance across all quarters ensured their 9-point victory and crucial points in the race for the top six.