Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League: The action-packed Day 5 of the Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) saw edge-of-the-seat excitement at the Gurugram University as Tamil Lions, Bhojpuri Leopards, and Punjabi Tigers roared to spectacular victories in their respective men’s matches.
With the league in full swing and every match delivering high drama, Tuesday’s triple-header was no different offering kabaddi fans a thrilling spectacle of raids, tackles, and heroic comebacks.
As the bright lights of the Multipurpose Hall lit up the mat, the energy was electric with fervent support for the teams. The presence of senior BJP leader in Haryana, Shri Bhani Ram Mangla, added an extra gleam to the day’s proceedings. Shri Mangla not only graced the venue but also felicitated standout performers, praising the players for showcasing traditional Indian sport on a global stage.
Tamil Lions Edge Marathi Vultures in Last-Minute Thriller
In the opening match of the day, Tamil Lions clashed with Marathi Vultures in a game that kept fans at the edge of their seats till the final whistle. It was a classic kabaddi showdown full of swift raids, powerful dashes, and tactical brilliance. The Lions clawed their way to a 41-38 win, riding on 23 solid raid points and three crucial Super Tackles. Their ability to stay calm under pressure proved vital.
Despite Marathi Vultures’ spirited performance, which included 20 raid points and four all-outs, they faltered during key moments. Tamil Lions’ defenders held their nerves in the final few minutes, neutralising the Vultures’ charge with clinical precision.
“This was a game of heart. We believed in our defence even when the Vultures were pushing us hard,” said a Tamil Lions coach post-match. “The boys showed composure and resilience.”
Bhojpuri Leopards Survive Telugu Storm in Nail-Biter
Match two saw the Bhojpuri Leopards take on the Telugu Panthers in what turned out to be the most balanced and breathless fixture of the day. With both sides evenly matched, it was always going to be a game of fine margins and the Leopards just about edged it, clinching a 43-41 win.
While Telugu Panthers amassed more raid points (27), their lack of defensive sting cost them. The Bhojpuri side, relentless in tackles with a tally of 16, managed to execute game-changing all-outs at pivotal junctures.
Both sides thrilled spectators with a Super Raid apiece, but it was the Leopards’ all-round discipline that saw them home.
“Our raiders didn’t need to do all the heavy lifting today. The defence stepped up magnificently,” a Bhojpuri Leopards player exclaimed. “That’s what team kabaddi is all about when one side falters, the other rises.”
Punjabi Tigers Dominate Haryanvi Sharks in a High-Scoring Affair
The final match of the day was an outright statement of intent from the Punjabi Tigers, who mauled the Haryanvi Sharks 64-47 in the most one-sided clash of the night. Having endured an inconsistent run in the opening days, the Tigers bounced back in style with a performance built on brute power and calculated aggression.
The Tigers were relentless, notching up a whopping 34 raid points and 21 tackle points, and enforcing six all-outs. Their raiders were simply unstoppable, slicing through the Sharks’ defence time and again.
The Sharks showed brief resistance, picking up three super tackles and fighting hard in pockets, but were eventually overwhelmed.
“We wanted to send a message and I think we did,” said the Punjabi Tigers captain. “This win means a lot, and the way we dominated shows that we’re back in the hunt.”
What’s Ahead: Women Take the Stage
As the men’s matches offered drama and delight, the stage is now set for the women’s teams to carry the torch forward on Wednesday. The day promises just as much excitement with Tamil Lioness facing Telugu Cheetahs at 6:00 PM IST, followed by Marathi Falcons taking on Bhojpuri Leopardess at 7:00 PM, and a fierce Punjabi Tigress vs Haryanvi Eagles clash closing the day.
With every match being broadcast live on Sony Sports 3 and FanCode, kabaddi enthusiasts across the globe are tuning in to witness this vibrant celebration of Indian sport.
The GI-PKL league stage continues until April 27. The men’s semi-finals are set for April 28, followed by the women’s semis on April 29. The grand finale, featuring the top two men’s and women’s teams, will be held with great fanfare on April 30.
With high-octane matches, national pride, and regional rivalries on full display, the Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League is not just reviving the essence of kabaddi but also redefining its reach across borders. Tuesday’s matches were a testament to the grit, glory, and grand tradition of this ancient Indian sport modernised, globalised, yet deeply rooted in spirit.
As the battle for semi-final berths intensifies, kabaddi fans can expect more firecrackers on the mat in the days to come.