Bharat Hooda emerged a hero Telugu Titans extended their strong showing in Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 (PKL12), wrapping up an unbeaten Chennai leg. They registered a convincing 46-29 victory over Haryana Steelers at the SDAT Indoor Stadium on Wednesday night.
Titans showed intent right from the start. They posted a 6-0 lead within the first five minutes, courtesy of powerful raids from Bharat Hooda and captain Vijay Malik. The early momentum led to a swift All-Out, setting the tone for the rest of the evening.
With this win, Telugu Titans have now notched up five consecutive victories, positioning themselves strongly in the playoff race.
Bharat Hooda’s Magical Night
Celebrating his 100th match, Bharat Hooda delivered one of the standout performances of the season. He amassed 20 points (16 raid + 4 tackle) and had already completed a Super 10 in the first half. Hooda’s raids were marked by precision, strength, and audacity- including a breathtaking Super Raid that sent the stadium into a frenzy.
“Bharat is on some other planet,” said Telugu Titans CEO Trinadh Reddy after the match. “He’s doing extremely well and is a vital part of our success.”
Hooda, who has found a second wind since joining the Titans from UP Yoddhas, has now registered more points this season than he did in the last two combined. He currently sits among the top five point-scorers in the league.
Steady Support Cast and a Clinical Finish
While Hooda starred, he was ably supported by Vijay Malik, who contributed 8 points, and the Titans’ defence, featuring key tackles from Ankit, Shubham Shinde, and Avi Duhan. Ajit Pawar triggered the team’s first All-Out with a strong tackle and Ankit’s defensive resilience extended the Titans’ lead in the first half.
Despite a brief fightback from Haryana Steelers- including a Super Raid by Mayank Saini, a Super Tackle by Rahul Ahri, and an All-Out executed by Vinay- the Titans held their nerve. Hooda’s relentless attacking ensured a second All-Out just before halftime, restoring a double-digit cushion at 26-16.
The Titans remained in control throughout the second half, with their third All-Out putting the match out of reach. By the final quarter, the outcome was a foregone conclusion.
Also Read: Top Teams With Longest Winning Streak In PKL History
A New Home in Chennai
The roaring support at the SDAT Indoor Stadium played a vital role in the Titans’ flawless Chennai campaign, prompting CEO Reddy to call Chennai the team’s “home after Vizag.” The players echoed the sentiment.
“The fans here are amazing,” said Vijay Malik. “Whenever we’ve played in Chennai, there’s been an incredible atmosphere. From the bottom of my heart, I thank the Chennai locals for their support.”
