Bengaluru Bulls will lock horns with U Mumba in Match 62 of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 11 at the Noida Indoor Stadium on November 18, with the action set to begin at 09:00 PM IST. This game features two teams in contrasting forms but with an age-old rivalry, making for an intriguing encounter.
Bengaluru Bulls find themselves struggling in the 11th spot on the PKL 11 points table with 13 points from two wins and eight losses. They’ll need a strong showing to break their losing streak and climb the standings.
U Mumba have fared much better this season, holding the third spot on the table with 34 points. They’ve registered six wins, three losses, and one tie, exhibiting consistency and form.
In PKL history, Bengaluru Bulls and U Mumba have faced each other 20 times. U Mumba have a clear edge in this rivalry, winning 14 of those encounters, while Bengaluru Bulls have emerged victorious six times.
Here are the three player battles to watch out for in today's clash:
#1 Ajit Chouhan (U Mumba) vs Nitin Rawal (Bengaluru Bulls)
Ajit Chouhan has been a standout raider for U Mumba, racking up 91 raid points in 10 matches with five super raids and four super 10s. His quick reflexes, agility, and impressive escaping skills make him a formidable threat for Bengaluru’s defense.
Facing him will be Nitin Rawal, Bengaluru’s defensive rock, with 34 tackle points in 10 matches. With a 54% tackle success rate and three high 5s, Nitin Rawal has been instrumental in keeping opposing raiders at bay. His battle with Ajit Chouhan could be decisive in swinging momentum.
#2 Ajinkya Pawar (Bengaluru Bulls) vs Rinku Sharma (U Mumba)
Ajinkya Pawar has been a reliable raider for Bengaluru Bulls, tallying 48 raid points in 10 matches with a 42% raid success rate. His consistent performance makes him a dependable option for Bengaluru’s offense.
U Mumba’s defense will rely on the experienced Rinku Sharma, who has secured 21 tackle points this season. Known for his timing and awareness, Rinku will look to curb Ajikya Pawar’s and further solidify U Mumba’s defense.
#3 Pardeep Narwal (Bengaluru Bulls) vs Sunil Kumar (U Mumba)
Pardeep Narwal, one of the most celebrated players in PKL history, has managed 42 raid points in eight matches this season. Although not in peak form, Pardeep has shown improvement with two super raids and a super 10. His recent performance indicates he’s finding his rhythm again.
Sunil Kumar, U Mumba’s seasoned defender, has collected 20 tackle points this season with three super tackles. While he hasn’t been at his absolute best, his experience and timing remain crucial assets for U Mumba’s defense.