Shadloui Fires Warning Ahead of U Mumba Clash

Gujarat Giants ended their poor run with a strong win over UP Yoddhas in PKL 12, led by Mohammadreza Shadloui and Ankit Dahiya with eight points each, while skipper Rakesh added six. Shadloui credited a new strategy focusing on defense and promised revenge against U Mumba, while coach Jaiveer Singh targeted consistent wins for the remainder of the season.

When the Gujarat Giants defeated UP Yoddhas in the opening match of the Chennai leg of PKL 12, it marked only their second win of the season but an important turnaround for the struggling side. The Giants delivered a strong collective performance with Mohammadreza Shadloui leading from the front, scoring eight points while focusing on defense. Ankit Dahiya also impressed with eight points, surprising the Yoddhas with his tackles, and new skipper Rakesh added six crucial raid points.

UP Yoddhas’ assistant coach Upendra Malik admitted his team faltered early, conceding an all-out that shifted the momentum. He credited Dahiya’s defensive effort as a game-changing factor and noted mistakes, including Sumit’s self-out, that cost them the match. After the win, Shadloui revealed that the team had adjusted their strategy, giving raiding duties to Rakesh while he concentrated on defense.

Looking ahead to their next clash against U Mumba, he admitted past mistakes but warned that this time he was prepared for “revenge.” Head coach Jaiveer Singh emphasized that the victory boosted confidence and outlined a clear goal to win all remaining games. He assured fans that the Giants had corrected past errors and would prepare strategically for each opponent.