Haryana Steelers emerged victorious in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 final, defeating Patna Pirates with a commanding 32-23 scoreline at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Balewadi on Sunday.
The encounter, billed as a clash between the league’s strongest defence (Steelers) and the most potent attack (Pirates), lived up to the hype. However, it was the Steelers’ balanced approach that ultimately proved decisive.
Shivam Patare, with a crucial nine points, spearheaded Steelers’ offensive charge, whilst its defence maintained a strong grip on the Pirates’ raiders, led by the dynamic Iranian all-rounder Mohammadreza Chiyaneh Shadloui, who contributed seven points.
PKL Final Highlights, as it happened | Shadloui, raiders carry Haryana to maiden Pro Kabaddi title
The first half saw a closely contested battle, with the Steelers edging ahead 7-5. Pirates raider Ayan Lohchab briefly levelled the score with a brilliant two-point raid, but Shivam responded with a crucial tackle.
Vinay, another key raider for Steelers, also chipped in with valuable six raid points, giving his team a 15-12 lead at halftime.
The second half witnessed a surge from the Pirates, with its substitute raider Sudhakar M delivering two successful raids early on. However, Steelers, under the astute guidance of coach Manpreet Singh, maintained their composure and continued to pile on the pressure.
A crucial all-out inflicted on the Pirates in the 33rd minute extended Steelers’ lead to a commanding nine points, effectively sealing their fate.
Iranian Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh put on a show to remember, also winning the season’s MVP award.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Iranian Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh put on a show to remember, also winning the season’s MVP award.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
The final phase of the game saw the JSW-owned team dominate proceedings with a blend of aggression and precision.
For the three-time PKL Champion, it was a disappointing night. Its attack, despite boasting this season’s best raider Devank Dalal, struggled to find its rhythm, whilst its defence leaked crucial points throughout the match. Only Gurdeep managed to pick up six tackle points.
This victory marks a significant milestone for coach Manpreet Singh, who has previously experienced heartbreak in three PKL finals as a coach with both Gujarat Giants (formerly Gujarat Fortune Giants) and Steelers. Finally, the former Indian captain tasted success, defeating a team he once captained to a PKL title in Season 3.
Steelers’ triumph continues a recent trend in the PKL, where the league topper emerges as champion.
Shadloui was awarded the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the season for his all-round brilliance. The Iranian also won the Best Defender award for 82 tackle points, whilst Patna Pirates’ Devank bagged the Best Raider trophy for 301 raid points.
