Ahmedabad
Delhi and Bengal, which finished first and second respectively in the league stage, come into the summit clash on the back of contrasting wins in the semi-finals. While BW only managed to edge U Mumba 37-35, DD had a relatively easier outing against holder Bengaluru Bulls, clinching it 44-38.
Both coaches are upbeat about the performances of their respective teams and claimed the final will be an amazing watch irrespective of who takes home the title. “No one knows who will win as both sides are equally good. Our players will give it their best shot,” said Delhi chief Krishan Kumar Hooda.
Warriors coach BC Ramesh, who was a national player when Hooda was the head coach of the Indian team, echoed his opposite number’s thoughts. “I am glad that two new teams are playing the decider. We will show the world how to play real kabaddi,” Ramesh told reporters in the pre-game press conference.
“Both departments must work together to achieve success. Along with hard work, luck also plays its role,” added Ramesh, who secured the championship with Bulls in PKL 6. There is no dearth of raiding talent in Delhi and Bengal, with Naveen Kumar (DD) and Maninder Singh (BW) impressing the most.
“I am happy that we have made it to the final, the team was in the semi-finals thrice in the past. We are getting closer to the PKL trophy,” stated Naveen Kumar.
Apart from the young sensation, backup raiders Chandran Ranjit and Vijay have been vital cogs for Delhi, contributing at crucial junctures. Iranian recruit Mohammad Nabibakhsh, K Prapanjan and Sukesh Hegde have performed similar roles for Bengal. The trio has done decently in the absence of Maninder and if the lead raider fails to be fit for the contest, it will have to step up once again.
“The side has been practising well and training on its fitness. We are not taking the pressure and we believe that is what will bring the best out of us on the mat. We are confident of lifting the trophy this time,” remarked Maninder.
In the defensive side of things, DD looks more settled as the corner and cover combinations have remained the same for most part of the season. Captain Joginder Narwal, Ravinder Pahal, Vishal Mane and Anil Kumar have hunted down various raiders and will strive to do so on the all-important night.
The right cover position has been a bit of concern for Bengal as coach Ramesh has tried a number of players, who have not nailed that spot. It will be one area Delhi will look to pounce and who better than Naveen Kumar to exploit it. Corners Baldev Singh and Rinku Narwal have been in good form, pinning down opposition raiders frequently.
The duo will have to deliver if Bengal is to claim its first title in PKL history. All in all, fanatics can expect a cracker of an encounter on Saturday.
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