In what was a whirlwind of a match, Gujarat Giants kicked off their Season 8 campaign in spectacular fashion, with a 34-27 victory over Jaipur Pink Panthers.

The inaugural champions got off the blocks rather quickly, gaining a 6-3 advantage in the early minutes of the match. However, a strong spear by Girish Ernak reduced the deficit and massively shifted the momentum in Gujarat Giants’ favour. The Giants took the lead for the first time in the season in the 10th minute and inflicted an All Out soon after to take a substantial 13-7 lead. Parvesh Bhainswal, along with Hadi Oshtorak, registered Gujarat’s first Super Tackle of the season.

However, Jaipur Pink Panthers somewhat clawed their way back into the match as they did an All Out over us but still, Gujarat Giants walked off the mat at Half Time, with a slender 19-17 lead in the bag.

Jaipur Pink Panthers tied the score at 23-all in the 30th minute of the match, promising a blockbuster finish. Girish Ernak continued his good outing in the second half, sealing Gujarat Giants’ first High 5 of the season and was arguably the best player of the match. He played a huge part in the dying minutes of the game as he handed Jaipur Pink Panthers their second All Out.

In the last move of the match, Girish Ernak executed the ankle hold to perfection to secure a 34-27 victory for the Giants. The Gujarat franchise bagged 5 comfortable points to start their campaign on a bright note.