Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final: Dabang Delhi Clinch PKL 2025 Title in a Thrilling 31–28 Victory

🏆 Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final: Delhi Crowned Champions of PKL 2025 in a Close Contest

The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 2025 Final turned into a dramatic showdown between Dabang Delhi KC and Puneri Paltan at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium, New Delhi, on October 31, 2025. In a gripping contest that went down to the final minutes, Dabang Delhi emerged victorious 31–28, securing their second PKL championship after a gap of four seasons.

This final wasn’t just a match—it was a clash of experience versus youth, strategy versus energy, and composure versus aggression.

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📖 Background: The Road to the PKL 2025 Final

Both teams had enjoyed strong campaigns throughout PKL Season 12.

• Dabang Delhi KC relied on a mix of seasoned defenders and sharp raiders. Led by Fazel Atrachali, the “Sultan of Defence,” Delhi showcased consistency and tactical brilliance.
• Puneri Paltan, on the other hand, represented the new generation of kabaddi—young, fearless, and fast. With players like Aditya Shinde and Abinesh Nadarajan, Pune dominated the league stages.

The two sides had met earlier in the league phase, where Puneri Paltan had the upper hand. But finals are a different beast—and this time, Delhi turned the tables. (Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final)

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⚡ Match Summary: Dabang Delhi 31–28 Puneri Paltan

The grand finale was packed with drama, precision, and emotional highs. Here’s how it unfolded:

First Half: Delhi’s Steady Start

• Delhi took control early with Neeraj Narwal and Ajinkya Pawar combining smart raids and quick bonus points.
• Pune struggled to break Delhi’s defensive wall led by Fazel Atrachali and Vijay Malik.
• At halftime, Delhi led 15–12, maintaining a slender but vital advantage.

Second Half: Pune’s Comeback Push

• Puneri Paltan came roaring back, with Aditya Shinde scoring a Super 10 (10 raid points).
• Abinesh Nadarajan executed two back-to-back Super Tackles, swinging momentum briefly in Pune’s favor.
• However, Delhi’s cool-headed defense held firm under pressure.

Final Moments: Fazel’s Clutch Magic

With just two minutes left and the scores tied at 27–27, Fazel Atrachali delivered a match-defining tackle, dismissing Pune’s lead raider.
That moment broke Pune’s rhythm, and Delhi capitalized, finishing the game 31–28. (Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final)

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🧩 Key Performers of the Match

Player	Team	Performance Highlights
Fazel Atrachali	Dabang Delhi	5 tackle points, captain’s composure
Neeraj Narwal	Dabang Delhi	8 raid points, consistent throughout
Ajinkya Pawar	Dabang Delhi	6 raid points, strategic raids
Aditya Shinde	Puneri Paltan	Super 10, high work rate
Abinesh Nadarajan	Puneri Paltan	4 tackles, strong defensive presence

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🧠 Tactical Breakdown: How Delhi Outsmarted Pune

1. Controlled Tempo and Time Management

Delhi’s plan revolved around controlling the match pace. They avoided risky raids, prioritized do-or-die points, and defended collectively.

2. Fazel’s Experience Showed

Atrachali’s presence was more than defensive — he guided field positioning, encouraged his raiders, and executed perfect corner tackles at critical junctures.

3. Pune’s Youthful Over-Aggression

Puneri Paltan showed flashes of brilliance but lacked the composure needed in final moments. Quick, impulsive raids gave Delhi the openings they needed to counterattack. (Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final)

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📊 Statistical Highlights

• Total Raid Points: Delhi – 19 | Pune – 18
• Total Tackle Points: Delhi – 10 | Pune – 8
• All-Outs: Delhi – 1 | Pune – 0
• Top Raider: Aditya Shinde (Puneri Paltan) – 10 Points
• Top Defender: Fazel Atrachali (Dabang Delhi) – 5 Points

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🎙️ Expert Opinions and Reactions

🗣️ Anup Kumar (Former India Captain)

“This final was a masterclass in game management. Dabang Delhi didn’t let emotions take over—they played percentage kabaddi.”

🗣️ Manjeet Chhillar (PKL Analyst)

“Pune’s youngsters were superb all season, but finals need leadership. Fazel’s control and anticipation were on another level.”

🗣️ League Commissioner’s Statement

“This was the most-watched PKL season in history. The 2025 final proved that kabaddi’s appeal is now pan-Indian and growing globally.”

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🔮 What This Win Means for Dabang Delhi and PKL’s Future

• Dabang Delhi’s Legacy:
  With two titles (2021 and 2025), Delhi joins the elite list of multi-time champions like Patna Pirates and Jaipur Pink Panthers.
• Puneri Paltan’s Promise:
  Despite the loss, Pune’s young squad displayed grit and skill. Their foundation for future seasons looks strong.
• For PKL as a League:
  The final’s nationwide viewership spike reinforced kabaddi’s rising commercial value, encouraging more sponsors and franchise investments for 2026. (Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final)

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📰 Broader Impact: Kabaddi’s Growing Professionalism

The PKL 2025 season witnessed:

• Enhanced use of AI-based performance tracking for players.
• Partnerships with schools to promote grassroots kabaddi programs.
• Government discussions on supporting kabaddi through Khelo India initiatives.

Experts believe that with such structural backing, kabaddi could emerge as India’s next major sports export—on par with cricket and hockey in terms of recognition. (Dabang Delhi vs Puneri Paltan Final)