PKL 12 Mini Qualifier: The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 is now entering its most thrilling stage, where every single match has the power to decide the fate of a team. On Sunday, 26th October 2025, fans will witness a high-voltage clash between two southern heavyweights — Bengaluru Bulls and Telugu Titans — in the Mini-Qualifier at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, Delhi, starting at 9:00 PM. This will be a battle not just for pride but for a direct ticket to the next playoff stage.
New Format: A Fresh Twist in PKL 12 Playoffs
Season 12 of PKL has introduced a new playoff format that rewards teams finishing higher on the points table.
Here’s how it works:
- The teams finishing 3rd and 4th directly qualify for the Mini-Qualifier.
- The winner of this match will move straight to Eliminator 3.
- The losing team will get another opportunity — they’ll play the winner of Eliminator 1 in Eliminator 2.
- If they lose again, they are knocked out of the tournament.
In short, this Mini-Qualifier is a crucial shortcut to the finals — and both teams know the stakes are sky-high.
Current Form and Team Situation
The Bengaluru Bulls have been one of the most consistent teams this season. Despite having a relatively young and inexperienced squad, they managed to finish third on the points table — a testament to their fighting spirit and tactical discipline under stand-in captain Yogesh Dahiya.
On the other hand, Telugu Titans have finally broken their playoff drought — qualifying for the knockouts after eight long years. They are the only team in the top eight yet to win a PKL title, and this year, they look determined to change that narrative. Led by an energetic raiding unit, the Titans have found balance in both offense and defense at the right time.
Both teams feature youthful defensive units that play an aggressive brand of kabaddi. Since the losing team still gets one more shot, fans can expect both sides to play bold but tactical kabaddi.
Bengaluru Bulls vs Telugu Titans – Head-to-Head Record
These two southern powerhouses have faced each other 26 times in PKL history:
- Bengaluru Bulls Wins: 17
- Telugu Titans Wins: 5
- Tied: 4
The Bulls clearly hold the upper hand in this rivalry. In fact, they also won the only encounter between these two sides earlier this season — which will give them added confidence heading into this clash.
Also Read: Pro Kabaddi League 2025: When Will the Final Match Take Place? Playoff Dates Explained
Key Players to Watch
Yogesh Dahiya & Deepak Sankar (Bengaluru Bulls)
Captain Yogesh Dahiya may not be the flashiest player on the mat, but he has been the Bulls’ backbone this season. Taking charge midway after the original skipper’s exit, Yogesh has led by example, guiding his young side with maturity and consistency.
He has already notched up 50+ tackle points for the third consecutive season, and his battle against Titans’ star raiders Vijay Malik and Bharat Hooda could decide the outcome of this Mini-Qualifier.
Meanwhile, Deepak Sankar has been the revelation of the season. Once he got his chance in the starting seven, he grabbed it with both hands — quickly becoming one of the league’s top defenders. He currently sits 3rd in the Top Defenders list with 59 tackle points, while captain Yogesh is 6th with 51. Together, they form one of the most dangerous corner-combos in PKL 12.
Vijay Malik & Bharat Hooda (Telugu Titans)
For Telugu Titans, the story of the season revolves around Bharat Hooda. The tall and athletic raider has emerged as their main weapon in attack, ranking among the Top 5 raiders of the season. His ability to break through tough defenses and score in pressure situations has been game-changing.
Alongside him, captain Vijay Malik plays the perfect supporting role. Known as the “Bonus King,” he has already scored 53 bonus points, the third-highest in the league this season. If these two continue their rhythm, Titans can give any defense in the league a serious test.
Predicted Starting 7
Bengaluru Bulls:
- Akash Shinde
- Satyappa Mutti
- Alireza Mirzaian
- Sanjay Dhull
- Aashish Malik
- Deepak Sankar
- Yogesh Dahiya.
Telugu Titans:
- Shubham Shinde
- Vijay Malik
- Ankit
- Bharat Hooda
- Ajit Pawar
- Manjeet
- Avi Duhan.
What to Expect from the Match?
This southern derby promises to be an intense contest filled with energy, quick raids, and powerful tackles. The Bengaluru Bulls will rely on their settled combination and solid defense, while the Telugu Titans will look towards their raiding duo of Bharat and Vijay to deliver under pressure.
The game could swing either way — if the Bulls manage to contain Bharat early, they could control the tempo. But if Titans’ defense steps up against Akash Shinde and Satyappa Mutti, they can turn the tide.
Expect a close, tactical, and high-scoring battle where both teams give it everything for that precious ticket to Eliminator 3.
Match Prediction
Based on current form, head-to-head dominance, and team balance, Bengaluru Bulls seem to have a slight edge. Their defense has been more consistent, and their combinations look more settled.
Predicted Winner: Bengaluru Bulls
Bengaluru Bulls vs Telugu Titans – Live Streaming and Telecast Details
The live action of the PKL 12 Mini-Qualifier between Bengaluru Bulls and Telugu Titans will be broadcast live on Star Sports Network.
For online viewers, the match can be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.
Fans can also follow real-time scores and updates on the official Pro Kabaddi League website and mobile app.
The Bengaluru Bulls vs Telugu Titans Mini-Qualifier is set to be one of the most exciting matches of the season. With both teams eyeing a place in Eliminator 3, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Expect fierce tackles, electrifying raids, and non-stop drama from start to finish — because when southern pride is on the line, kabaddi becomes more than just a game!
