PKL-12: Haryana Steelers strengthen their claim for the Top 4 by defeating Telugu Titans by 11 points

Riding on the brilliance of Vinay Tewatia (11 points) and a solid defense (14 points), Haryana Steelers defeated Telugu Titans by 45–34 in the 103rd match of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12, played on Wednesday at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium. With this win, Haryana has taken a big step toward the Top 4, though their final position could still change depending on the results of other matches. However, their place in the Top 8 is now confirmed.

For Haryana, Shivam Patare (8 points) also played impressively but had to leave the mat due to injury. After his exit, Haryana’s defense took full control and guided the team to victory. This was the final match for both teams. Haryana registered their ninth win in 18 matches, while the Titans, who were sitting third on the points table, suffered their eighth loss. For Telugu Titans, Bharat was the top scorer with 16 points.

The Titans started strong, as Bharat picked up two multi-points raids to give his team a 5–3 lead. They soon executed a super tackle against Haryana and followed it up with an all-out, extending their lead to 10–4. However, Haryana bounced back with two quick points, and then Shivam’s multi-point raid forced a super tackle situation for the Titans. Vijay, on a do-or-die raid, dismissed Jaideep, avoiding another setback.

Shivam then picked up two more touch points, reducing the Titans to just two players by the end of the first quarter. After the break, the Titans couldn’t avoid the all-out, allowing Haryana to take a 14–13 lead. Soon after, Shivam was caught and injured, forcing him out. Bharat then led a mini comeback for the Titans, leveling the score at 17–17, but Haryana managed to go into halftime with a 21–20 lead.

Post halftime, with the score tied at 23–23, Mayank scored two points, setting up a super tackle chance for the Titans. However, Neeraj tackled Bharat, and Haryana went on to inflict another all-out, taking a 30–24 lead. Their defense continued to dominate, catching Bharat again and dismissing Vijay as well. By the end of the third quarter, the Titans managed to tackle Vinay, bringing the score to 26–34.

In the final quarter, Bharat, after being revived, got Neeraj out, but Dhanushyam caught him soon after. Haryana then extended their lead to 10 points, while the Titans again faced a super tackle situation. Vinay, on a do-or-die raid, dismissed Shubham, and Rahul tackled Vijay, sealing Haryana’s victory. They completed the match with another all-out, confirming a comprehensive win.