Pro Kabaddi League Season 12:
Dabang Delhi and Puneri Paltan to face off in the final
Dr. Shrikrishna Sharma
New Delhi. Dabang Delhi K.C. and Puneri Paltan will face off for the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 title. Both teams are considered heavyweights. Fans of the sport are assessing their title chances in their own way. However, it’s difficult and premature to clearly distinguish between them. The two teams have played three tie-breakers this season, proving that it’s nearly impossible to differentiate between them. Both teams understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses well, so this final is expected to be a thrilling and close contest. Therefore, this final is set to be a memorable one at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium. This match will take place on Friday, October 31st, when Dabang Delhi K.C. and Puneri Paltan face off. Both teams are considered two of the best teams of this season. Their journey to the finals has been nearly identical, with both finishing in the top two spots in the points table. Season 8 champions Dabang Delhi defeated Puneri Paltan in Qualifier 1 in a thrilling 6-4 tiebreaker, as the scores were tied at 34-34 in regulation time. Under the leadership of captain Ashu Malik and former captain and current coach Joginder Narwal, Delhi has performed brilliantly in crucial moments. This has been their hallmark this season.
On the other hand, Puneri Paltan made a remarkable comeback, defeating Telugu Titans in Qualifier 2, and reaching the finals for the third time in four seasons. Under the captaincy of Aslam Inamdar and the coaching of Ajay Thakur, the Paltan have made a significant impact this season. Their raiding rotation and defensive strength have made them a tough team for their opponents. This season, they faced each other three times, and all three matches went to tiebreakers. While Dabang Delhi relied on Ashu Malik’s explosive raids, Paltan relied on the composure and coordination of their corner defenders. This final is crucial for Delhi. Playing on home ground, this match will give them extra energy from the spectators. Delhi will rely on experienced players like Fazel Atrachali, Saurabh Nandal, and Ashu Malik. Their defense has strengthened with each match, and their ability to win close games in knockout matches sets them apart. Puneri Paltan, on the other hand, is looking to put last season’s disappointment behind them. Led by Aslam Inamdar and young raider Aditya Shinde, their attack has been very sharp. Dabang Delhi K.C. Head coach Joginder Narwal said, “I am proud of this team. We have grown together. From the young players to the seniors, everyone has contributed. This isn’t about any one player; it’s the spirit of the entire team. The way these players faced adversity and remained united makes me confident that this success is fully deserved.” Puneri Paltan head coach Ajay Thakur said, “When I took over coaching, I knew the foundation had to be laid on team unity. A champion team isn’t built overnight; it takes time, trust, and discipline. I am most proud of how united this team is; their love for each other is reflected in their play. We have proven throughout the season that we belong at the top level, now we just have to put in our best efforts one last time.”
