Daijiworld Media Network - Gurugram

Gurugram, Apr 21: The excitement at the ongoing Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) soared on Sunday as Telugu Panthers, Marathi Vultures, and Bhojpuri Leopards registered impressive victories in their respective men’s matches at Gurugram University.

The GI-PKL kicked off on Friday with men's matches, followed by women's games starting on Saturday. The league runs for 13 days, with the grand finale scheduled for April 30 at the university’s Multipurpose Hall.

In the first men’s match of the day, the Telugu Panthers edged past Tamil Lions with a 33-27 victory. Despite Tamil Lions’ strong raiding effort (18 points), the Panthers’ all-round performance, including 16 raid points and 13 tackle points, secured them the win. Tamil's failure to achieve all-out points ultimately cost them the match.

The second clash saw Marathi Vultures overpowering Punjabi Tigers 55-44 in a thrilling high-scoring affair. With 30 raid points, 20 tackle points, and four all-outs, the Vultures proved dominant. Punjabi Tigers matched them in raids but faltered in defense, with Marathi's strong tackling and three super tackles proving decisive.

Bhojpuri Leopards triumphed over Haryanvi Sharks 39-30 in the day’s final match. The Leopards displayed dominance with 20 raid points, 13 tackle points, and 4 crucial all-out points, despite a strong challenge from the Sharks. Bhojpuri’s solid all-round performance sealed the victory.

As the action moves into the women’s category, Monday will feature three exciting matches: Haryanvi Eagles will take on Bhojpuri Leopardess, Marathi Falcons will lock horns with Tamil Lioness, and the final fixture of the day will see Telugu Cheetahs face Punjabi Tigress.

With the league stage continuing until April 27, the men’s and women’s semi-finals are set for April 28 and 29, respectively, leading up to the grand finale on April 30.