PKL 12 Eliminator 1: The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 has entered its thrilling knockout stage, where there’s no room for mistakes — it’s win or go home. On Sunday, 26th October 2025, fans will witness a blockbuster encounter as two of the most successful teams in PKL history, Jaipur Pink Panthers and Patna Pirates, lock horns in Eliminator 1 at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, Delhi, starting at 8:00 PM.
This clash is not just another game — it’s about legacy, pride, and survival. The winner will move a step closer to the Pro Kabaddi Season 12 title, while the loser’s campaign will end right here.
A New Knockout Format Brings New Excitement
This season, the PKL 12 knockout format has been revamped, and fans are loving every bit of it. The first day of the playoffs saw two breathtaking Play-In matches, setting up this electrifying Eliminator clash between two kabaddi giants.
Both teams — three-time champions Patna Pirates and two-time champions Jaipur Pink Panthers — know what it takes to handle pressure at this stage. Sunday night promises another thrilling encounter as they battle for survival and a place in the next eliminator.
Current Form and Team Situation
The Jaipur Pink Panthers are entering this Eliminator with tremendous confidence after their nerve-wracking win over defending champions Haryana Steelers in Play-In 1. The Panthers fought till the very last minute to pull off a sensational victory, and such a win can lift any team’s morale heading into a knockout clash.
Meanwhile, Patna Pirates pulled off a major upset in Play-In 2, defeating a strong U Mumba side. The Pirates have been unstoppable in recent weeks — riding a six-match winning streak — and will look to extend their momentum.
Both teams are in red-hot form, and with star performers in both camps, this Eliminator promises fireworks.
Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Patna Pirates Head-to-Head Record
These two legendary teams have faced each other 24 times in PKL history:
- Jaipur Pink Panthers Wins: 10
- Patna Pirates Wins: 14
- Tied: 0
The Patna Pirates hold the edge historically, having won four of the last five meetings between the two sides. However, in this season, both teams have defeated each other once — making this Eliminator a perfectly balanced contest.
Key Players to Watch Out For
Ayan Lohchab (Patna Pirates)
Without a doubt, Ayan Lohchab has been the heart and soul of the Patna Pirates this season. He has single-handedly carried the team into the playoffs, collecting over 250 raid points during the league stage. Currently among the top raiders of the season, Ayan has scored 15+ raid points in three of his last four games, proving his consistency and composure under pressure.
In the Play-In match against U Mumba, Ayan once again stood tall, leading the Pirates to victory. His battle against Jaipur’s defensive wall — especially Reza Mirbagheri and Deepanshu Khatri — will be the key duel of the night. If Ayan delivers again, Patna could continue their dream run.
Ali Samadi (Jaipur Pink Panthers)
The Iranian raider Ali Samadi has been a revelation for Jaipur Pink Panthers this season. Acting as a perfect support raider to Nitin Dhankhar, Ali has shown tremendous tactical intelligence and efficiency, with a raid success rate above 60%.
Samadi has brought balance to Jaipur’s offense and has often turned games with his smart, calculated raids. In this Eliminator, he’ll be a crucial figure, especially while facing Patna’s aggressive defenders like Deepak Singh and Navdeep.
Predicted Starting 7
Jaipur Pink Panthers:
- Nitin Dhankhar
- Reza Mirbagheri
- Mohit
- Ali Samadi
- Parvinder
- Deepanshu Khatri
- Aryan Kumar.
Patna Pirates:
- Milan Dahiya
- Ayan Lohchab
- Ankit Rana
- Deepak Singh
- Balaji D
- Navdeep
- Ankit Jaglan.
What to Expect from the Match?
This Eliminator is expected to be an edge-of-the-seat thriller. Both teams are high on confidence and have strong tactical setups. Jaipur’s balanced, all-round game contrasts perfectly with Patna’s explosive raiding firepower.
The Panthers will rely on their experienced defenders and team coordination, while the Pirates will hope Ayan Lohchab continues his golden run.
The battle between Jaipur’s defense and Patna’s lone raiding warrior could define the night. If the Panthers can contain Ayan early, they’ll take control — but if Ayan breaks free, Patna could script another upset.
Match Prediction
Both teams are evenly matched, but Jaipur’s defensive balance, experience, and all-round strength give them a slight upper hand. Patna’s winning momentum is impressive, yet their heavy reliance on Ayan could cost them if Jaipur’s defense clicks.
Predicted Winner: Jaipur Pink Panthers (thanks to a stronger team balance and composure under pressure).
Live Streaming and Telecast Details of Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Patna Pirates?
The PKL 12 Eliminator 1 – Jaipur Pink Panthers vs Patna Pirates will be telecast live on Star Sports Network in India. For online viewers, the match will be streamed live on the JioHotstar app and website.
Fans can also follow live scores, match stats, and updates on the official Pro Kabaddi League website and mobile app.
The PKL 12 Eliminator 1 promises to be a mouth-watering kabaddi clash between two giants of the sport. Jaipur Pink Panthers will look to continue their championship pedigree with tactical precision, while Patna Pirates, riding on red-hot Ayan Lohchab, will aim for another magical performance.
It’s a clash of history, pride, and hunger — and when these two titans collide, one thing is certain: fans are in for an unforgettable night of pure kabaddi drama in Delhi!
