The Patna Pirates displayed commendable spirit and determination but fell short against an in-form Tamil Thalaivas side, losing 37-56 at the SDAT Multi Purpose Indoor Stadium in Chennai. Despite the result, raiders Ayan Lohchab and Ankit Rana stood out with impressive Super 10s, continuing their consistent form this season.
The home side, powered by Arjun Deshwal’s record-breaking 26-point performance, produced one of the most dominant displays of the campaign. But the Patna Pirates fought valiantly, showcasing flashes of brilliance in both attack and defence throughout the high-scoring encounter.
Bright Start for Patna Pirates
The match began with both teams trading blows early on. Ayan Lohchab opened the account for the Patna Pirates with a confident raid, before producing a superb Super Raid that briefly put his team ahead. Ankit Rana also joined the act, picking up quick points as the Pirates established early control.
The Tamil Thalaivas responded through Aashish and Himanshu, but the Pirates’ defence struck first with Navdeep’s crucial tackle, inflicting the opening ALL OUT and giving the Patna Pirates a four-point cushion. Midway through the first half, the scoreboard read 13-11 in favour of the visitors.
Thalaivas Rally to Lead at the Break
The Tamil Thalaivas clawed their way back into the contest, thanks to Nitesh Kumar’s defensive leadership and Arjun Deshwal’s clinical raiding. The home side turned the game around with a series of successful tackles, enforcing their own ALL OUT to move ahead 18-14.
Arjun continued his dominance, completing his Super 10 while guiding his side to a commanding position. Despite Ankit Rana’s quick raids to keep the gap manageable, the Patna Pirates went into halftime trailing 19-30 after conceding a second ALL OUT in the dying moments of the half.
Patna Pirates Keep Fighting
The Patna Pirates started the second half with renewed intent. Ankit Rana completed his Super 10 to reduce the deficit, while the defence looked sharper and more coordinated. Ayan Lohchab too reached his Super 10, executing crucial Do-or-Die raids to keep his side in contention.
However, the Tamil Thalaivas maintained control through Narender Kandola’s raids and Nitesh Kumar’s fifth High Five of the season. Arjun Deshwal continued his record-breaking night, ensuring the Thalaivas stayed comfortably ahead.
Ayan Lohchab’s Late Flourish
Even as the Tamil Thalaivas extended their lead, the Patna Pirates refused to back down. Ayan Lohchab produced a brilliant four-point Super Raid, giving the Pirates fans a moment to cheer late in the game. His never-say-die effort summed up the team’s spirit as they continued to push till the final whistle.
In the end, the Tamil Thalaivas’ all-round strength proved decisive, as they sealed a 56-37 win. Still, the Patna Pirates’ fighting display — led by Ayan and Ankit — provided positives to build on heading into the next leg of the season.
Standout Performers for Patna Pirates
- Top Raider: Ayan Lohchab
- Top Defender: Navdeep
The End Note
While the scoreline may not reflect the effort, the Patna Pirates can take heart from their perseverance and attacking intent against a Tamil Thalaivas side in top form. With Ayan Lohchab and Ankit Rana continuing to impress and the defence showing moments of brilliance, the Pirates remain determined to turn these efforts into victories in the coming fixtures.
The three-time champions will now look ahead to their next match, focused on bouncing back stronger and regaining momentum in Season 12.