The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 (PKL 12) concludes its Vizag leg with a blockbuster encounter as table-toppers Dabang Delhi K.C. clash with struggling Gujarat Giants in Match 28. This Thursday night showdown at the Vishwanadh Sports Club promises to be a defining moment, with unbeaten Delhi seeking their fifth consecutive victory against a Gujarat team desperately searching for consistency after three defeats in four matches.
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Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants Preview
This encounter showcases one of PKL 12’s most compelling narratives – the unstoppable force meeting the immovable object in crisis. Dabang Delhi K.C. have emerged as the tournament’s most dominant team, maintaining a perfect record with four consecutive victories that have established them as genuine title contenders.
Delhi’s journey reflects the brilliance of captain Ashu Malik, who has single-handedly carried their raiding attack with four consecutive Super 10 performances. Their experienced defensive core, anchored by legendary figures like Fazel Atrachali and Surjeet Singh, has provided the perfect complement to Malik’s attacking prowess.
Gujarat Giants present a stark contrast – a team with quality individual performers struggling to convert talent into team success. Their campaign has been marked by heartbreaking near-misses, including losses in tie-breakers and golden raids that could have dramatically altered their trajectory. With captain Mohammadreza Shadloui enduring his worst start to any PKL season, the pressure is mounting for the Iranian all-rounder to rediscover his championship-winning form.
The psychological dynamics heavily favor Delhi, who enter with the confidence of unbeaten champions. However, Gujarat’s desperation could prove dangerous, especially if Shadloui can channel his proven match-winning abilities against his former teammate Ashu Malik.
Current Season Form Comparison
| Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Points | Current Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dabang Delhi K.C. | 4 | 4 | 0 | 20 | 1st Position |
| Gujarat Giants | 4 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 11th Position |
The statistics reveal two teams on completely different trajectories, with Delhi’s perfect record contrasting sharply with Gujarat’s struggle for consistency.
Dabang Delhi K.C.’s PKL 12 Journey:
- Match 9 vs Bengaluru Bulls: Won 41-34
- Match 14 vs Puneri Paltan: Won 28(5)-28(5) (Golden Raid 2-0)
- Match 20 vs Jaipur Pink Panthers: Won 36-35
- Match 23 vs Bengal Warriorz: Won 45-34
Gujarat Giants’ PKL 12 Campaign:
- Match 4 vs U Mumba: Lost 29(6)-29(5) (Tie-breaker)
- Match 8 vs Puneri Paltan: Lost 19-41
- Match 18 vs Tamil Thalaivas: Won 37-28
- Match 24 vs Jaipur Pink Panthers: Lost 30(5)-30(5) (Golden Raid 1-0)
Match Information and Broadcast Details
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Match | Dabang Delhi K.C. vs Gujarat Giants |
| Tournament | Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 – Match 28 |
| Date | Thursday, September 11, 2025 |
| Time | 9:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Vishwanadh Sports Club, Vizag |
| Live TV Coverage | Star Sports Network (Multiple Languages) |
| Live Streaming | JioHotstar App & Website |
| Free Live Stream | Khel Now TV YouTube Channel |
| Official Updates | prokabaddi.com, Pro Kabaddi Official App |
| Ticket Booking | District.in |
Historical Rivalry and Head-to-Head Analysis
The rivalry between these franchises carries significant historical complexity, with both teams having experienced periods of dominance. The overall head-to-head record shows remarkable balance, though recent trends heavily favor Delhi.
Head-to-Head Statistics
| Statistic | Dabang Delhi K.C. | Gujarat Giants |
|---|---|---|
| Total Matches | 16 encounters | |
| Victories | 7 wins | 6 wins |
| Tied Matches | 3 ties | |
| Win Percentage | 44% | 38% |
| Recent Dominance (Since PKL 8) | 6 wins from 7 matches | 1 win from 7 matches |
Recent Psychological Edge: Delhi’s overwhelming recent dominance creates significant psychological pressure for Gujarat. Since PKL 8, Gujarat have managed just one victory against Delhi, establishing a pattern of Delhi supremacy that the Giants desperately need to break.
Golden Raid Experience: Both teams have participated in golden raids this season with contrasting outcomes – Delhi emerged victorious against Puneri Paltan, while Gujarat suffered heartbreak against Jaipur Pink Panthers, highlighting their different responses to pressure situations.
Captain’s Battle: Agent Ashu vs Showstopper Shadloui
This encounter features the season’s most compelling individual storyline – the battle between PKL 12’s most dominant raider and one of its most underperforming stars.
Ashu Malik (Dabang Delhi K.C. Captain):
- Perfect record with four consecutive Super 10 performances
- 61 raid points in 4 matches (70% of team’s raid output)
- 2nd-best in average raid points in PKL 12
- Most raid points in do-or-die raids
- Historically strong against Gujarat (9 points per match at 63% raid SR)
Mohammadreza Shadloui (Gujarat Giants Captain):
- Worst start to any PKL season in his career
- Only 6 raid points and 5 tackle points in 4 matches
- Two-time consecutive PKL champion (PKL 10, PKL 11)
- One of only three players with 300+ tackle points and 100+ raid points
- Strong historical record vs Delhi (4 points per match at 70% tackle SR)
Captain Performance Comparison
| Aspect | Ashu Malik | Mohammadreza Shadloui |
|---|---|---|
| PKL 12 Form | 4 consecutive Super 10s | Struggling for impact |
| Team Dependency | 70% of raid points | Needs to lead revival |
| Pressure Level | Managing expectations | Desperate for form |
| Historical vs Opponent | 63% success rate | 70% tackle success |
Key Players and Individual Battles
The outcome of this Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants preview encounter will be determined by several crucial individual matchups across different positions and roles.
Players to Watch
| Player | Team | Role | Current Form | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashu Malik | Dabang Delhi | Lead Raider | 61 points in 4 matches | Consistent Super 10 performer |
| Mohammadreza Shadloui | Gujarat Giants | Captain/All-rounder | 6 raid, 5 tackle points | Two-time PKL champion |
| Fazel Atrachali | Dabang Delhi | Left Corner | Joint-highest tackle points | Legendary defender |
| Rakesh Sungroya | Gujarat Giants | Lead Raider | 28 points, first Super 10 | Most consistent Gujarat performer |
| Nitin Panwar | Gujarat Giants | Right Cover | Joint-most super tackles | Defensive standout |
| Ajinkya Pawar | Dabang Delhi | Right In | 5 points vs Bengal | Emerging support raider |
Critical Individual Battles
Ashu Malik vs Gujarat Defense: Delhi’s captain faces his biggest test against a desperate Gujarat defensive unit led by the struggling Shadloui. His ability to maintain his Super 10 streak will largely determine Delhi’s victory margin.
Rakesh Sungroya vs Delhi Defense: Gujarat’s most consistent performer must breach the experienced Delhi defense featuring Fazel Atrachali and Surjeet Singh. His recent Super 10 performance provides hope for Gujarat’s chances.
Fazel Atrachali vs Gujarat Raiders: The Sultan faces his former franchise with a point to prove. His battle against both Rakesh and any potential Shadloui raids will be crucial for Delhi’s defensive stability.
Tactical Analysis and Team Dynamics
The tactical contrast between these teams provides fascinating strategic elements that will determine the match outcome.
Dabang Delhi K.C.’s Dominance Model:
- Ashu Malik-centric attacking strategy (70% of raid points)
- Experienced defensive core averaging 10 tackle points per match
- Proven ability to handle pressure situations (Golden Raid victory)
- Strong support system when primary raider needs rest
Gujarat Giants’ Survival Approach:
- Lowest raid output in PKL 12 (14.5 raid points per game)
- Over-reliance on individual performances rather than team strategy
- Inconsistent defensive coordination except for Nitin Panwar
- Tendency to collapse under pressure in crucial moments
Team Performance Metrics
| Metric | Dabang Delhi K.C. | Gujarat Giants |
|---|---|---|
| Average Raid Points/Game | High team total | 14.5 (lowest in PKL 12) |
| Super 10s Achieved | 4 consecutive (Ashu) | 1 total (Rakesh) |
| Defensive Consistency | 10 tackle points/game | Inconsistent except Nitin |
| Pressure Performance | Golden Raid winners | Lost crucial moments |
Predicted Starting Sevens
Dabang Delhi K.C.: Saurabh Nandal, Ajinkya Pawar, Surjeet Singh, Ashu Malik (C), Sandeep, Neeraj Narwal, Fazel Atrachali
Gujarat Giants: Himanshu, Himanshu Singh, Nitin Panwar, Rakesh, Shubham Kumar, Shridhar Kadam, Mohammadreza Shadloui (C)
Pressure Points and Critical Factors
Several factors will determine the outcome of this crucial PKL 12 encounter:
For Dabang Delhi K.C.:
- Maintaining Ashu Malik’s Super 10 streak and managing his workload
- Preventing over-dependence on individual brilliance
- Fazel Atrachali’s performance against his former team
- Closing out the Vizag leg with a perfect record
For Gujarat Giants:
- Shadloui’s desperate need to rediscover championship form
- Supporting Rakesh Sungroya with additional raiding threats
- Nitin Panwar leading defensive revival across the team
- Converting individual moments into team success
Key Tactical Battle: The clash between Delhi’s systematic team approach and Gujarat’s reliance on individual brilliance will determine whether the Giants can cause a massive upset or Delhi continue their dominance.
Match Prediction and Analysis
Dabang Delhi K.C. enter as overwhelming favorites based on current form, team balance, and recent head-to-head dominance. Their combination of Ashu Malik’s consistent brilliance, experienced defensive leadership, and proven ability to handle pressure situations makes them formidable opponents for any team.
Gujarat Giants face a seemingly impossible task against the league’s most complete team. However, Shadloui’s championship pedigree and the team’s desperate need for a statement victory could produce the motivation needed for a historic upset. Their recent close losses demonstrate they possess the quality to compete; the question remains whether they can convert potential into performance.
Delhi’s systematic approach, combined with Malik’s unstoppable form, creates multiple pathways to victory. Their defensive experience should handle Gujarat’s inconsistent attack, while their tactical discipline under pressure gives them significant advantages in crucial moments.
Prediction: Dabang Delhi K.C. to win by 8-10 points
The match promises to be a showcase of contrasting philosophies – Delhi’s collective excellence against Gujarat’s individual desperation. For the Giants, this represents a crucial opportunity to prove their quality against the league’s best team and potentially salvage their season.
Where to Watch Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants LIVE? Broadcast and Streaming Details
Fans can enjoy comprehensive coverage on Star Sports Network with live streaming available on JioHotstar App and Website. The 9:00 PM IST start time provides prime-time entertainment for kabaddi enthusiasts. Additionally, free streaming is available on Khel Now TV YouTube channel, with live scores and updates on prokabaddi.com and the Pro Kabaddi Official App.
This encounter between the tournament’s most dominant team and one of its most disappointing sides promises tactical intrigue, individual brilliance, and the drama that makes PKL 12 compelling viewing for sports fans across the country.
Read More: PKL 12 Match 27: U Mumba vs Patna Pirates Preview and Prediction
FAQs
When and where is the Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants PKL 12 match taking place?
The match is scheduled for Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 9:00 PM IST at the Vishwanadh Sports Club, Vizag, serving as Match 28 of PKL 12 and the final match of the Vizag leg.
What is the head-to-head record between Dabang Delhi and Gujarat Giants?
From 16 total encounters, Dabang Delhi have won 7 matches to Gujarat Giants’ 6 victories with 3 ties. However, Delhi have dominated recent meetings, winning 6 of the last 7 encounters since PKL 8.
How have both teams performed in PKL 12 so far?
Dabang Delhi K.C. are the only unbeaten team with 4 wins from 4 matches, sitting at the top of the table. Gujarat Giants have struggled with just 1 win from 4 matches, currently positioned 11th in the standings.
Who are the key players to watch in this Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants encounter?
Ashu Malik (Delhi’s captain with 4 consecutive Super 10s), Mohammadreza Shadloui (Gujarat captain seeking form revival), Fazel Atrachali (Delhi’s defensive leader), and Rakesh Sungroya (Gujarat’s most consistent performer) are the crucial players to monitor.
Where can fans watch the Dabang Delhi vs Gujarat Giants PKL 12 match live?
The match will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network, streamed on JioHotstar App & Website, with free streaming available on Khel Now TV YouTube Channel. Live scores and updates are available on prokabaddi.com and the Pro Kabaddi Official App.
