Chennai: After a spirited performance against Patna Pirates, UP Yoddhas now turn their attention to Gujarat Giants in what promises to be a crucial encounter on October 9 in Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) 12.
With six league games left, the Yoddhas are eyeing a strong finish to reignite their playoff hopes, and their recent display has provided enough tactical markers to suggest that a turnaround is well within reach.
Against Patna, UP Yoddhas showed sharp in-game thinking through well-timed empty raids and structured defensive responses, a tactical tweak that helped them control phases of play and minimise the risk of all-outs.
As they head into their next fixture, this adaptability will be central to their approach.
With experienced minds like head coach Jasveer Singh and assistant coach Upendra Malik at the helm, the Yoddhas have consistently demonstrated their ability to absorb lessons quickly and recalibrate for the next challenge.
Offensively, all eyes will once again be on Gagan Gowda, whose 10-point performance provided their attack with much-needed edge. Supported by Shivam Chaudhary and Bhavani Rajput, UP’s raiding unit will look to carry forward that sharpness and stretch Gujarat’s defensive lines early in the game.
On the defensive front, the combination of Ashu Singh, Mahender Singh, Hitesh, and Sumit displayed encouraging signs in the previous match, particularly in their ability to break opposition momentum through precise tackles.
Gujarat Giants, known for their well-drilled defence and quick counter-attacks, present a different kind of test.
However, UP Yoddhas have repeatedly shown the ability to adapt and respond tactically, an attribute that will be critical in dictating the tempo against a disciplined opponent.
With playoff qualification still mathematically within reach, the match against Gujarat is an opportunity for the Yoddhas to convert learnings into impact and set the tone for a late-season surge. A focused, tactically disciplined outing could well be the spark that powers their comeback.
