Although both UP Yoddha and Puneri Paltan have had a below-average season so far, they will have a point to prove when they face each other in the 61st match of Pro Kabaddi season 7.
Both UP Yoddha and Puneri Paltan have conceded the most all-outs this season (13 times). And that tells you that the defensive department of both these teams has been poor.
UP Yoddha have seen some resurgence from their main raiders. Shrikant Jadhav and Rishank have made an impact in the last few games. UP will be very happy as their strike raider Monu Goyat returned back to form after scoring a brilliant super 10 against Delhi.
Their defense has been vulnerable and that was once again vindicated by Dabang Delhi’s Naveen Kumar, as he scored a massive 16 raid points against them in the last game. The defenders have scored points but they cannot afford to leak repeatedly, especially when UP Yoddha sense a dearth of valuable points.
Puneri Paltan look very strong on paper, but on the field, they have been far from what they promise to be. Left corner Girish Ernak has failed to repay the team’s faith in him. He has scored only 19 points so far and might be left out of the starting seven for the same. Corner defenders Hadi Tajik and Sagar Krishna have contributed points but haven’t made a very huge impact.
However, Balasaheb Jadhav’s outstanding performance in the last match along with Surjeet Singh’s recent rise has given some hope to this Pune defense.
Raiders Manjeet and Pankaj Mohite have fulfilled their promise. To add to it, Pune also have the services of Nitin Tomar. The experienced raider hasn’t quite fired this season but is too good to be ignored. He could well take a big stride soon.
Predicted Starting 7s
UP Yoddha: Shrikant Jadhav, Rishank Devadiga, Monu Goyat, Sumit, Nitesh Kumar (C), Amit, Ashu Singh
Puneri Paltan: Manjeet, Nitin Tomar, Surjeet Singh(C), Amit Kumar, Balasaheb Jadhav, Hadi Tajik, Sagar Krishna
Match Prediction
UP Yoddha have been made to work hard for their wins. They have the ability to beat Pune but must make sure that their defense doesn’t leak too many points.
Puneri Paltan must show maturity by not attempting advanced tackles and must keep a check on UP’s score.
Puneri Paltan could be expected to beat UP Yoddha in tonight’s game.
Where and when to watch
Date: Monday, 25th August 2019
Start time: 8:30 pm IST
Venue: Thyagaraj Sports Complex, Delhi
Live telecast: Star Sports Network
Live streaming: Hotstar
Live updates: Sportskeeda
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