We don’t care about personal performance, only about winning: Vijay Malik after statement victory

Telugu Titans produced a statement performance, overpowering Tamil Thalaivas 43-29 in the Southern Derby at the SMS Indoor Stadium on Friday night. It was a victory of intent and execution, as the Titans avenged their season-opening defeat with a complete performance built on raiding brilliance and defensive discipline.

Captain Vijay Malik led from the front with a Super 10, setting the tone for his side with sharp, fearless raids. He was ably supported by Bharat, who chipped in with valuable points to keep the scoreboard ticking and the Thalaivas under pressure. Their chemistry was evident throughout the contest. “Both of us are like brothers,” Malik said. “We try to maintain this kind of bonding, and it will help us in the upcoming matches as well.”

More than individual displays, Malik underlined the collective mindset that drove the Titans to their biggest win of the season. “Our team is no less than anyone. If it is not better than anyone, then it is not less either,” he said with conviction. “We don’t care about personal performance—we focus only on who will make us win.”

The Titans’ defensive unit executed the game plan to perfection, targeting Thalaivas’ star raider Arjun Deshwal and keeping him off the mat for long stretches. “The coach told us that the more we keep Arjun out, the more the match will be in our hands,” Malik explained. The defenders responded with coordinated tackles and calm decision-making, shutting down the Thalaivas’ rhythm.

For Telugu Titans, who had endured a mixed start to the season, the result was a timely reminder of their potential. With Malik leading from the front and a balanced unit finding its groove, the Titans have sent a clear message—they are back in the hunt and ready to challenge the best.

Please find below the previews for the PKL Season 12 matches on Saturday, September 20:

Patna Pirates go into this clash desperate to turn their season around, with just one win from six matches leaving them near the bottom of the table. In contrast, Dabang Delhi K.C. have been in fine form, unbeaten this season and firmly placed in the top two. Dabang Delhi’s attack, led by the ever-reliable Ashu Malik, has looked sharp, while their defence has shown great consistency. The Pirates will need their raiders like Ayan Lohchab and Maninder Singh to deliver big if they are to upset the odds.

Haryana Steelers come into this contest brimming with confidence after a convincing win over Puneri Paltan that showcased both their defensive steel and raiding depth. Tamil Thalaivas, on the other hand, are licking their wounds from a heavy defeat to Telugu Titans, where over-reliance on skipper Arjun Deshwal was brutally exposed. For the Steelers, Vinay and Shivam Patare have been reliable in attack, while Jaideep and Mohit continue to form a formidable defensive wall.

Tickets are available on District by Zomato, the official ticketing platform for PKL Season 12: https://www.district.in/events/pkl-2025-jaipur-team

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The Pro Kabaddi League Season 12 is being broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and streamed on JioHotstar from 7:30 pm onwards.