Patna Pirates Advance to Eliminator 2 in Pro Kabaddi League Season 12
On October 26, 2025, the Patna Pirates secured a decisive 48-32 victory over the Jaipur Pink Panthers in the Eliminator 1 match of the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12, held at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. This win propels the Pirates into Eliminator 2, bringing them closer to their quest for a record-extending fourth PKL title.
Ayan Lohchab’s Stellar Performance
Young raider Ayan Lohchab delivered an exceptional performance, amassing 20 points in the match. This marks his fifth game in PKL history where he has scored 20 or more points, a feat previously achieved only by Pardeep Narwal and Devank Dalal. Lohchab’s aggressive raiding was instrumental in the Pirates’ commanding lead throughout the game.
Defensive Mastery by Navdeep
Complementing Lohchab’s offensive prowess, defender Navdeep showcased his defensive skills by securing a High Five, contributing significantly to the team’s robust defense. His timely tackles thwarted the Pink Panthers’ raiders, maintaining the Pirates’ dominance on the scoreboard.
Match Highlights
The Pirates initiated the match with high intensity, inflicting the first All Out on the Pink Panthers within the initial five minutes, establishing a seven-point lead. Despite efforts from Jaipur’s Ali Samadi, who registered a Super 10, the Pirates maintained control. The synergy between Lohchab’s raiding and Navdeep’s defensive tactics ensured a comfortable margin, culminating in a 16-point victory.
Coaching Transition and Team Leadership
Earlier in the season, the Pirates underwent a coaching change, appointing Randeep Dalal as the new head coach. Under Dalal’s guidance, the team has demonstrated resilience and strategic acumen. Additionally, Ankit Jaglan has been leading the team as captain, with Deepak Singh serving as vice-captain, both playing pivotal roles in steering the Pirates through the season.
Season Overview and Upcoming Challenges
The Pirates’ journey in Season 12 has been marked by notable performances, including a thrilling tie-breaker victory against the Bengaluru Bulls on October 17, 2025, where Lohchab’s Super 10 and Mandeep Kumar’s decisive raid secured the win. As they advance to Eliminator 2, the team remains focused on their objective of clinching a fourth PKL title, aiming to solidify their legacy as the most successful franchise in league history.
