Despite the defeat, Maharashtra Kesari head coach Anil Mann expressed satisfaction with his team\u2019s performance, noting how closely fought the tie was and how fine the margins were.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt was a closely fought contest, and the opposition was very strong. In a few bouts, matches that we were on the verge of winning turned into defeats in the final few seconds, which was largely down to bad luck,\u201d Mann told reporters in the post-game press conference.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Mann also underlined the positive impact the league has had on young wrestlers, particularly those competing alongside elite athletes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cIt has been a very good start for the junior players. They are getting a platform where they can compete alongside Olympic and world champions. The fear or hesitation that often exists while playing with senior athletes has been removed,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Praising the league\u2019s innovative format, Mann added that the introduction of the Power Minute has significantly enhanced the excitement and competitiveness of the bouts.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe introduction of the power minute makes the matches even more thrilling. Often, when an opponent builds a big lead, a player may feel that there is no way back. However, the power minute ensures that even a wrestler who is trailing until the final moments still has the chance and belief to turn the match around and win,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
On the mat, Delhi took an early advantage through Anjli in the 62kg women\u2019s bout, but Maharashtra hit back strongly with wins from Manisha Bhanvala and captain Robert Baran to move 3\u20131 ahead. Nishu Bhanvala\u2019s narrow victory further strengthened Maharashtra\u2019s position, leaving Delhi on the brink of elimination.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe introduction of the power minute makes the matches even more thrilling. Often, when an opponent builds a big lead, a player may feel that there is no way back. However, the power minute ensures that even a wrestler who is trailing until the final moments still has the chance and belief to turn the match around and win,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Although the final match was decided by forfeit, the result had already been sealed as Delhi Dangal Warriors clinched a dramatic 5\u20134 win. Manisha Bhanvala was named Fighter of the Match for her dominant performance, despite Maharashtra falling just short of a place in the final.<\/p>\r\n\r\n