The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2025 saw a major upset as the Patna Pirates triumphed over the league’s best team, Puneri Paltan, with a commanding scoreline of 38-27 at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium. Ayan Lohchab was the undisputed star, scoring a remarkable 17 points and spearheading his team’s charge to victory against the formidable opponents. The Pirates showcased their championship mettle by erasing a halftime deficit and outplaying the table-toppers.
Initially, the match was a cautious affair, with both teams showcasing tactical acumen. Patna’s raiding strategy, involving Ankit Kumar and Ayan Lohchab, was well-supported by their defensive wall, led by Deepak and Navdeep, helping them establish an early 8-5 lead.
Ayan Lohchab’s brilliance in raiding was a constant threat throughout the first half, while Navdeep’s defensive work was equally impressive. Puneri Paltan, however, responded with resilience, their defense, featuring the likes of Rakesh and Sanjay Enania, managing crucial Super Tackles. Abhishek Gunge and Mohammad Nabibakhsh contributed vital raid points for Puneri, allowing them to seize a narrow 15-13 lead at the interval.
Following the halftime break, Ayan Lohchab continued his offensive onslaught, consistently scoring crucial points and putting the Puneri defense under severe pressure. Milan Dahiya’s impactful raids, including a pivotal ALL OUT, significantly boosted the Pirates’ morale and momentum. Despite the spirited efforts of Abhishek Gunge and Mohammad Nabibakhsh to rally Puneri, the Pirates displayed superior coordination and execution.
The turning point arrived in the second half as the Pirates, led by Ayan Lohchab and Stuwart Singh, unleashed a barrage of aggressive raids. Their defense complemented their offense perfectly, with Ankit and Navdeep making game-changing tackles that stifled Puneri’s comeback ambitions. This dominant display of all-round kabaddi ensured that the Patna Pirates extended their lead steadily, ultimately securing a decisive 38-27 win and handing Puneri Paltan a significant setback in their league campaign.