PKL 2021-22: Tamil Thaliawas tie Patna Pirates

Tamil Thalaivas and Patna Pirates plundered in a 30-30 draw in their Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) match here on Thursday. Ajinkya Pawar scored 12 points for Thaliawas while Monu Goyat scored 9 points for Pirates.

Interestingly, coach Uday Kumar chose a much changed Thalaivas line-up against the Pirates, with Manjeet and K. Prapanjan was on the bench.

Ajinkya Pawar, whose scintillating cameo had helped Thaliawas in previous matches, also started from the dugout. But with skipper Surjit Singh on the mat, Tamil Thalaivas looked like a dominant side capable of challenging the best.

The Patna all-rounder was also raining tackle points throughout the half with tackles and assists.

Monu Goyat was the stand-out star for the three-time champions, picking up difficult points against a well-drilled Tamil Thalaivas defense. Patna’s hybrid kabaddi players, capable of defending and attacking, made it difficult for the Thalaivas to target any weaknesses.

Patna Pirates secured their first All Out in the last minute of the first half which ended 18-12 in favor of the men on the green.

The introduction of Ajinkya Pawar gave the Tamil raiding unit the much needed acumen. His 2-point raid at the start of the second half set the tone for the Thalaivas, who were all out in the 8th minute.

Ajinkya Pawar also got his Super 10 as Thalaivas opened 2-points with 10 minutes to go.

Patna remained in the game, with two critical reviews ensuring that they remained within touching distance of the Tamil Thalaivas. Sajin was having a bad night on the mat for C. Patna Irani Mohammadreza Chianeh made sure she stayed focused with body blocks and dashes.

The score was 30–30 with one minute remaining in the match and the teams decided to reserve three points (one for a tie) rather than go on to win.