Haryana Steelers have officially clinched a playoff spot in Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) season 12, following a decisive 50-32 victory against the Gujarat Giants at the Thyagaraj Stadium in Delhi. This crucial win for Haryana also means the Jaipur Pink Panthers have successfully qualified for the postseason.
The match was characterized by a dominant performance from the Haryana Steelers, led by impressive Super 10s from Shivam Patare and Vinay. Patare’s contribution of 16 raid points marked a significant personal milestone, crossing the 400 raid points threshold in the PKL. The Gujarat Giants fought back, with Himanshu Singh achieving a Super 10, but their efforts were ultimately insufficient.
Haryana Steelers started strong, with Vinay scoring the first point and Jaideep securing an early tackle. The Gujarat Giants mounted a response, with Himanshu Singh making key plays and Nitin Panwar contributing a tackle. After a period of back-and-forth action, including a tackle from Lucky Sharma, the Giants managed to secure an ALL OUT against the Steelers.
However, the defending champions quickly turned the tide. Shivam Patare was a standout performer, contributing across both ends of the mat. This resurgence led to a 10-10 tie by the end of the first quarter. The Steelers maintained their momentum, with Hardeep and Patare executing effectively, and a tackle from Rahul leading to another ALL OUT, giving Haryana a four-point lead.
Despite the Gujarat Giants’ attempts to stay competitive, highlighted by tackles from Mohammadreza Shadloui, the Steelers held a comfortable 21-15 lead at halftime. The second half saw a slower start, with defensive actions from Sahil Narwal and Lucky Sharma. Shivam Patare reached his Super 10, extending the Steelers’ advantage significantly.
Although Ankit Dahiya’s Super Raid brought the Gujarat Giants within seven points of Haryana with ten minutes left, the Steelers were unfazed. A critical tackle by Neeraj led to a final ALL OUT for the Giants. Vinay then delivered the knockout blow with a four-point Super Raid, solidifying the Steelers’ commanding 50-32 win and their confirmed playoff status.