Chennai: A spectacular performance from Aditya Shinde propelled Puneri Paltan to a convincing 37–27 victory over U Mumba in the Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 clash at the SDAT Multi-Purpose Indoor Stadium on Wednesday. The Season 10 champions bounced back from an early deficit, with Shinde’s 14-point masterclass sealing the game in style and marking a significant statement of intent from the Paltan.
U Mumba’s Early Charge
The match began with U Mumba showing great intent. Rinku’s tackle on Aslam Inamdar and Ajit Chouhan’s Super Raid, which claimed Gaurav Khatri, Pankaj Mohite, and Gurdeep, gave U Mumba a solid 4–0 lead. However, Aditya Shinde quickly shifted gears, earning Puneri’s first points of the night with a crucial raid on Rinku. That single moment turned the tide.
Puneri Paltan Regain Control
Shinde’s relentless raiding brought Puneri Paltan back into the contest. His successful raids dismissed Lokesh Ghosliya and Parvesh Bhainswal, helping his team draw level at 5–5. Despite U Mumba finishing the first quarter narrowly ahead, Puneri’s momentum was building.
In the second quarter, the Paltan showed why they are considered one of the most balanced sides in the competition. Aslam Inamdar and Pankaj Mohite combined brilliantly to inflict the first All Out, swinging the game decisively in Puneri’s favour. From trailing early to leading 17–12 at halftime, the Paltan dominated possession and dictated the rhythm of play.
U Mumba Fight Back, But Paltan Hold Firm
The third quarter saw an intense battle of nerves. Ajit Chouhan continued to shine for U Mumba, pulling off key raids on Vishal Bhardwaj and Gurdeep, keeping his team within touching distance. Yet, Aditya Shinde remained unflinching — responding raid for raid, ensuring the Paltan maintained their edge.
Defenders Gurdeep and Abinesh Nadarajan produced critical tackles, halting Mumba’s charge. Even as Amirmohammad Zafardanesh and Sandeep tried to spark a comeback, Puneri’s discipline and teamwork held firm, with the scoreboard reading 22–21 as the clock ticked down.
Aditya Shinde Seals It in Style
The final minutes belonged entirely to Aditya Shinde. His Super Tackle swung the momentum back towards Puneri, before he completed his Super 10, reaching a personal milestone of 100 PKL career points.
A late All Out on U Mumba, engineered by Shinde’s clinical raiding, capped off a flawless finish as Puneri Paltan closed the night with a 10-point triumph (37–27).
A Champion’s Response
After a shaky start, Puneri Paltan once again showcased the hallmarks of champions — balance, resilience, and belief. Shinde’s all-round brilliance, supported by Aslam and Pankaj’s aggressive play, reaffirmed the Paltan’s credentials as one of the strongest contenders this season.
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