The Patna Pirates defeated the Bengaluru Bulls 46–37 in Eliminator 2, extending their remarkable run at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium on Monday. By achieving this, they secured their spot in Eliminator 3, where they will play Telugu Titans on Wednesday.
The Pirates extended their winning run to eight games and were once again in excellent form. The team’s defense was essential in keeping the Bulls under continual pressure, and star raider Ayan led the charge with a fantastic effort, scoring 19 points. Shubham Bitake’s seven-point outburst, which is the most individual points by a player in PKL history, was a highlight of the game for the Bulls.
Alireza Mirzaian’s brilliant raid gave the Bengaluru Bulls the lead early in the game. But Ayan retaliated with a raid of his own, and the Pirates quickly tied the score. Deepak made a deft tackle shortly after, giving the Pirates a slim advantage. In the first few minutes of the game, both teams kept trading points.
However, the Pirates’ momentum changed as Ayan spearheaded the attack, enabling them to score the game’s first ALL OUT and take a 9–3 lead. Based on that assurance, the Pirates continued to apply pressure through strong raids and tackles, finally gaining a 10-point lead prior to the first-half Strategic Time Out.
The Bengaluru Bulls got off to a good start in the next phase, scoring a few points thanks to a powerful Super Tackle that made them feel better. But Deepak made another timely tackle to turn the tide in the Patna Pirates’ favor, and they soon recovered control.
Although both sides kept trading points, the Pirates’ steady raiding and defensive performances allowed them to preserve their superiority. They extended their lead to 23–12 in the first half by inflicting another ALL OUT as a result of their persistent pressure. As the Pirates tightened their hold on the game, Ayan maintained his incredible run and quickly completed his Super 10. With a 27–13 lead against the Bengaluru Bulls at the break, the Patna Pirates were clearly in control.
The Patna Pirates maintained control through cunning raids and strong tackles as the second half got underway. However, Shubham Bitake’s incredible Super Raid, which resulted in seven rapid points—six touch points and one bonus point—gave the Bengaluru Bulls a brief reprieve. This player broke Pardeep Narwal’s record for the first time in PKL history with a 7-point raid.
Alireza Mirzaian’s outstanding tackle shortly afterward allowed the Bulls to force an ALL OUT and further reduce the deficit. The Pirates maintained their lead and entered the Strategic Time Out with a 36–29 edge despite that comeback.
After the resumption, the Patna Pirates maintained their superiority and swiftly increased their lead to 40–30. They continued to dominate the game, giving the Bengaluru Bulls little opportunity to rally. The Pirates maintained composure and concentration in the face of a minor setback in the second half, maintaining a strong lead. They ultimately secured a well-earned and emphatic victory thanks to their all-around performance.
