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After a topsy-turvy campaign, the Jaipur Pink Panthers raided the lion’s den as they emerged the champions of the inaugural Pro Kabaddi League a little less than twelve months ago in Mumbai. Backed by the enthusiasm of the Bachchan family the Pink Panthers were immortalized in the history of modern Indian Kabaddi.
Playing to defend their crown the Jaipur Pink Panthers got off to a worst possible start, losing five of their opening six games. But as champions do, they have rallied back into contention after winning four out of the next five games while coming back from the dead to draw in the other.
As its now clear that the champions won’t be surrendering their crown without a fight, we take a look at five qualities of a champion which the Jaipur Pink Panthers are portraying.
1. Peaking at the right time
One can lose the league in the opening weeks, but it can only be won on the final day of the season. After many thought, the Jaipur Pink Panthers have lost it in the opening few weeks, the Pink Panthers began their rise when it mattered the most. With many teams running out of fuel as we approach the business end, the Pink Panthers have put their foot on the accelerator at the perfect time. ‘The Champions are on the rise. Stop them if you can’, is the message from the Jaipur camp.
2. Down but never out
Champions never give up. They find ways to win games and that’s what Jaipur have been doing. Trailing 20-12 at half time against an in-form Telugu Titans side in their own backyard, the Pink Panthers brought the Champion out in them to draw the game at 39-39. Jaipur have won every game they have played since then.
3. To be the best, beat the best
After taming the marauding Telugu Titans on their patch, Jaipur Pink Panthers scripted the first defeat of the table toppers U-Mumba’s season. Trailing the men from Mumbai till the 14th minute, the Pink Panthers absolutely murdered them in the second half to win comfortably by ten points.
4. Stars step up to the plate
Cometh the hour cometh the men. Jaipur’s failing title defense was revived when superstars like Jasveer Singh, Rajesh Narwal and Kuldeep Singh got their act together when it was needed the most. With each one of them delivering a match winning performance from time to time, the Jaipur Pink Panthers now find themselves in the top four and well placed to qualify from here on.
5. Stamp your authority
Once things got in control for the Champions, it was time for them to show their class. Up against the form side Dabang Delhi in the capital, Jaipur Pink Panthers absolutely rinsed them 51-21 and send shockwaves around the country. It was a statement of intent from the Champions which well and truly announced their arrival in this season’s Pro Kabaddi League big time.
