The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 (PKL 12) is reaching its final league stages, and every match from here on carries massive weight, especially for teams still fighting for a spot in the Top 8 (play-ins). One such high-stakes clash is lined up for Saturday, 18th October 2025, as Bengal Warriors take on the Jaipur Pink Panthers in Match 96 at 9:30 PM IST at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, Delhi.
With both teams having three league matches left, a loss at this stage could be the end of the road for their playoff dreams. So, expect a fierce contest, full of intensity, drama, and tactical brilliance.
Current Form and Standings of Both Teams
The Bengal Warriors have had a disappointing run in PKL 12. With just 5 wins in 15 matches, they are currently 12th (last) on the points table. Their most recent game ended in a defeat, adding more pressure on the squad to bounce back.
The team has been over-dependent on Devank Dalal, who has been in sensational form. However, the lack of support from other players has hurt them badly. At this point, Bengal must win all remaining games and hope for favourable results elsewhere to stay in contention.
The Jaipur Pink Panthers, the defending champions, finally ended their four-match losing streak with a win in their last game against UP Yoddhas. The return of Nitin Dhankar from injury proved to be the X-factor, as he scored 11 raid points and looked in top rhythm.
With 7 wins from 15 matches, Jaipur are currently 7th on the points table, and a win here will greatly boost their chances of making it to the Top 8. Momentum is slightly back on their side, and they’ll look to capitalize on it.
Bengal Warriors vs Jaipur Pink Panthers – Head-to-Head Record
The rivalry between these two sides has always been tightly contested. In 21 matches played so far:
- Bengal Warriors Wins: 10
- Jaipur Pink Panthers Wins: 10
- Tied: 1
The head-to-head is perfectly balanced, but the Pink Panthers had the upper hand the last time these two teams met earlier this season.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Ali Samadi (Jaipur Pink Panthers)
If there’s one player who has lit up Jaipur’s season, it’s Ali Samadi, the Iranian raider. While Nitin Dhankar was out injured, Samadi took charge and kept the scoreboard ticking for the Pink Panthers. His raids are smart, swift, and unpredictable.
In their previous clash against the Warriors, Samadi scored a Super 10 and played a pivotal role in the Panthers’ win. He’ll again be a big threat to the Bengal defense, which has been shaky all season.
Devank Dalal (Bengal Warriors)
There’s no debate—Devank Dalal is the standout raider of PKL 12. With an unbelievable tally of 262 raid points in just 15 matches, he’s been Bengal’s one-man army. His ability to take on any defense and consistently deliver Super 10s makes him the most dangerous player on the mat.
However, Devank can’t do it alone. The Warriors need their defense and support raiders to step up if they want to beat a rejuvenated Jaipur side.
Probable Starting 7s
Bengal Warriors:
- Devank Dalal
- Shivansh Thakur
- Manjeet
- Parteek
- Ankit
- Ashish Malik
- Himanshu Narwal
Jaipur Pink Panthers:
- Nitin Dhankar
- Ali Samadi
- Reza Mirbagheri
- Ashish Kumar
- Vinay Redhu
- Deepanshu Khatri
- Aryan Kumar
Match Prediction: Who Holds the Edge?
On paper and current form, Jaipur Pink Panthers look slightly stronger. Their win in the last match has brought back some rhythm, and the return of Nitin Dhankar adds firepower to their raiding department alongside Ali Samadi.
The Bengal Warriors, on the other hand, will once again rely heavily on Devank Dalal. If he fires, Bengal has a real chance. But unless their defense steps up and the support raiders contribute, they could struggle.
Prediction: Jaipur Pink Panthers are favourites to win this match, but if Devank delivers another magical performance, an upset can’t be ruled out.
Bengal Warriors vs Jaipur Pink Panthers – When and Where to Watch?
The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 match between Bengal Warriors and Jaipur Pink Panthers is scheduled for Saturday, 18th October 2025, at 9:30 PM IST. The match will be held at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in New Delhi.
Fans can watch the live broadcast on the Star Sports Network in multiple languages, including Hindi and English. For online viewers, the match will be streamed live and free on the JioHotstar app and website. Real-time score updates, stats, and highlights will be available on the official Pro Kabaddi website and mobile app.
With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, Match 96 promises to be a cracker. Jaipur will look to continue their winning momentum, while Bengal must treat this as a do-or-die situation. The clash of form, hunger, and individual brilliance makes this a must-watch Saturday night showdown.
Will Devank Dalal deliver another solo masterclass, or will the Samadi-Dhankar duo take the Panthers closer to the Top 6?
Let’s find out together on the kabaddi mat!
