U.P. Yoddha are ready to start their Chennai leg with a match-up against the Jaipur Pink Panthers. Yoddha have a tough task in hand as they get on the mat at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, Chennai, on Monday, with the Panthers in scintillating form, winning six of their seven ProKabaddi matches this season.

Their raiders

The Panthers’ raiding contingent is spearheaded by Deepak Niwas Hooda, who has been consistent with his raids. Hooda has featured in six of the seven matches his side has played, and has registered 60 points, with four super-10 performances. His namesake in the side, Deepak Narwal, has also been impressive, while Nitin Rawal is usually the third raider the team prefers to bank on. However, there has been a lack of consistency for the other raiders than Hooda, and that’s where the key to tackle points remains.

Nitesh, Sumit and Ashu have formed one of the best defence lines in this season of ProKabaddi. Their primary aim against the Panthers will be to stay away from impulsive decisions and restrict Hooda from taking advantage of those opportunities.

Their defenders

Sandeep Dhull, among the Panthers defenders, has delivered standout performances so far, remaining consistent with his tackle points and keeping the right raiders away from scoring points. Dhull, at left corner, will be a threat to Rishank Devadiga and Monu Goyat as both tend to go deep at right.

Experienced Amit in right and Vishal have also been impressive this season. Our raiders will have to be careful about these three defenders as they go out in search of raid points. Shrikant has been consistent among the Yoddha raiders and will be expected to carry his form into this crucial match.

Rishank Devadiga, who has been on the bench, had secured 28 points in our last meeting against the Jaipur Pink Panthers.

Head to head

UP Yoddha 1-2 Jaipur Pink Panthers