Mighty Marathas were crowned champions of the second season of the Archery Premier League after defeating Kakatiya Knights 6-2 in the final at the People’s Plaza in Hyderabad, India, on Sunday (18 October).
India’s recurve star Dhiraj Bommadevara shot an impressive 79 out of 80, while Dutch compound archer Mike Schloesser lived up to his nickname ‘Mr Perfect’ with a flawless 80 out of 80 to lead Marathas to their first title.
It was a remarkable turnaround for Marathas, who had lost to Knights in their final round-robin match on Saturday and again in Sunday’s first qualifier, before beating Prithviraaj Yodhas 5-3 in the second eliminator to earn another shot at the title.
“Believing in each other, keeping patience, and attack-attack-attack,” said Bommadevara when asked about the team’s comeback.
“To be honest, the truth is that we changed nothing after losing the first match, and that I think is the beauty of this team.”
The final began with both teams sharing the opening set 75-75 after Bommadevara delivered a 10 with his last arrow, while Knights’ Neeraj Chauhan finished with an eight.
Bommadevara continued his impressive form in the second set, shooting two inner 10s to help Marathas take the lead.
Knights fought back in the third, with Chauhan and Bommadevara both producing crucial arrows, but Marathas managed to share the set and maintain their advantage.
