The Pro Kabaddi League 2024 has witnessed its fair share of rivalries, but none have been as fiery and personal as the brewing feud between Patna Pirates’ raider Devank Dalal and Haryana Steelers’ head coach Manpreet Singh.
Following two heated encounters this season, Devank has openly challenged the Haryana Steelers, vowing to turn the tables whenever the two teams meet next. In an explosive statement to Khel Now, Devank didn’t mince his words, saying:
“Time ka intezaar kar rahe hai kab Haryana ke saath dobara match aayega. Panna palat denge bhai uss din toh. (We are just waiting for the next match against Haryana Steelers. We will turn the tables that day).”
The animosity between the two sides became public on December 6, during their reverse fixture at the Balewadi Stadium in Pune. The match, already marred by several controversial umpiring decisions, saw tempers flare on both sides. Devank, frustrated with what he called “biased umpiring,” argued fiercely with officials and received a yellow card. Interestingly, even Haryana Steelers’ head coach, Manpreet Singh, couldn’t keep his cool and was handed a yellow card during the same game.
Despite the chaos, Haryana Steelers secured a 42-36 victory, completing a season double over the Pirates after winning their earlier clash 37-32. The result left Patna fuming, with Devank hinting at unfinished business.
Manpreet Singh, known for his animated and aggressive coaching style, was a dominant figure during both encounters. However, Devank made it clear that Patna Pirates are not backing down from the challenge. In a fiery reply to Manpreet’s aggression, Devank said:
“Aggression toh bhai humare andar bhi hai. Aisa thodi hai Bhagwan ne sabhi ek jaise banake bheje hai, sabka khoon garam hai. Hum bhi dikha denge. Ek baar match toh aane do agli baar. (We can show aggression too. It’s not like only one side has it. Everyone’s blood boils the same way. Just give us another chance to play against them, and we’ll show them.)”
Pro Kabaddi 2024: When is the Haryana Steelers vs Patna Pirates' next match?
Haryana Steelers and Patna Pirates have already played their both games in the league stage with Haryana coming on top on both occasions. Interestingly, both teams have confirmed their spot in the playoffs and we might see them face again depending on the final position in the standings.
As of December 19, Haryana Steelers sit comfortably at the top of the standings, while Patna Pirates hold the second position. If their current form continues, these two heavyweights could lock horns in a high-stakes playoff clash or perhaps even in the PKL 11 finals.