As the Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 (PKL 12) heats up, fans of Dabang Delhi are eagerly awaiting news about their captain and star raider, Ashu Malik. With the team returning to their home turf at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium in Delhi for match number 79 against the in-form Puneri Paltan, the big question is – will Ashu Malik take the mat tonight?
Tonight’s clash at the Thyagaraj Indoor Stadium is no easy one. Delhi will lock horns with Puneri Paltan, who are currently sitting at second place with 22 points from 14 matches. With 11 wins and only three losses, and a healthy score difference of +84, the Paltan have also booked their place in the top eight. This match promises to be a thriller, with two of the strongest teams in PKL 12 going head-to-head.
Dabang Delhi’s Dominant Run in PKL 12
Dabang Delhi have been in sensational form this season, topping the PKL 2025 points table with 24 points from 14 matches. With 12 wins and just 2 losses, they have already secured a spot in the top eight. Despite missing their captain for the last two games, Delhi has shown resilience and depth in their squad.
Their narrow 36-37 defeat to Bengal Warriorz in Chennai ended a five-match winning streak, but the team bounced back brilliantly with a victory over Gujarat Giants. This performance, even without Ashu Malik, speaks volumes about the squad’s character and ability to perform under pressure.
What’s the Update on Ashu Malik?
The big question on every Dabang Delhi fan’s mind is: Will Ashu Malik play today?
Ashu suffered a leg injury during their match against Haryana Steelers, which forced him to miss the team’s last two fixtures. While the injury was initially concerning for fans, head coach Joginder Narwal has given a positive update.
“Ashu’s injury is minor and nothing serious. I will only let him play if he is 100% fit; otherwise, I won’t field him,” Joginder Narwal said during the post-match press conference after their loss to Bengal Warriorz.
This clearly shows that the Delhi camp is in no hurry to rush their star player back onto the mat, especially considering they’ve managed to perform well in his absence. With the playoffs in sight and the stakes only getting higher, the coaching staff is expected to prioritize Ashu’s long-term fitness over a single match.
Also Read: PKL 2025: What Happened to Ashu Malik? Why the Dabang Delhi Captain Is Not Playing?
Ashu Malik’s Performance So Far
Ashu Malik has been one of the standout players of PKL 12. In just 12 matches, he has scored a whopping 148 points – 146 raid points and two tackle points. He has also recorded seven Super 10s and seven Super Raids, making him one of the most dangerous raiders this season. His average of 12.16 raid points per match is a testament to his consistency and attacking prowess.
Not only is Ashu a prolific raider, but he also brings leadership, strategy, and calmness to the mat – qualities that make a huge difference in close encounters.
Who’s Leading Delhi in His Absence?
With Ashu Malik out, Iranian kabaddi legend Fazel Atrachali has stepped up to lead the side. Known for his defensive brilliance and sharp mind, Fazel has ensured that Delhi doesn’t lose momentum. Under his captaincy, the team has shown great coordination, especially in high-pressure moments.
Final Verdict – Will Ashu Play Tonight?
While fans are hoping for Ashu’s return in tonight’s high-voltage clash against Puneri Paltan, it appears unlikely that he will be rushed back into action. Given the coach’s clear stance on only fielding him at full fitness, and the team’s recent success even without him, it’s quite possible that Ashu may sit this one out as well.
However, with playoffs approaching and Delhi already in a strong position, preserving Ashu for the more critical knockout matches might be the wiser move.
Dabang Delhi will certainly miss their skipper’s presence on the mat, but their depth and form suggest they are still strong contenders, even against a tough opponent like Puneri Paltan. Whether or not Ashu Malik plays tonight, Delhi fans can rest assured that their team is well-prepared and well-led.
Stay tuned for further updates as the match draws closer – and fingers crossed, we may soon see Ashu back in action, doing what he does best!
