Pro Kabaddi: Bengaluru Bulls' 3rd raider needs to show up vs U Mumba

Can Rajesh Mondal (2nd from R) be successful against U Mumba?

At 9 pm on 21^st August, Manjeet Chhillar was a relieved man. His team has just beaten the exuberant Telugu Titans in a nail-biting semi-final. However, a completely different proposition awaits them in the final.

U Mumba’s artillery in defence will pose more than a problem for the Bulls. Their inch-perfect takedowns have secured them crucial points. With three consistent raiders and a miserly defence, U Mumba looks by far the favourites to clinch the crown.

If the Bangalore Bulls are to have any chance of winning this one, someone apart from Manjeet Chillar and Ajay Thakur will need to exhibit their skills. More often than not, the team has been reliant on these two individuals to keep the scorecard ticking. Against Mumbai, one can expect either of the two to sit out of the match for large periods. During such times, the likes of Rajesh Mondal and Rakesh Narwal will need to step up.

Ajay Thakur is Bengaluru Bulls’ Shabeer Bapu

Captain Manjeet has admitted that his team is banking on Ajay Thakur to deliver.

He said, “We are confident Ajay Thakur will have a good final. He is our Shabeer Bapu (of U Mumba) this season.”

Speaking about Shabeer Bapu, Manjeet pointed out that they will have to keep a close eye on the man from Kerala, “We know that Shabeer is fully fit now and he will definitely be a threat.”

Bangalore’s defence looks water-tight, but their attack may prove to be their downfall. The final provides a chance for one unsung hero to step up and make his mark on the mat. Whether it will be the elusive third raider for Bangalore? Only time will tell.