In an electrifying finale on Sunday, the Deccan Aces, led by Kunal Patni, triumphed in what was the biggest and most fiercely contested season in Poker Sports League (PSL) history. This marks their third PSL victory, having previously won PSL Season 3 (Virtual) in 2021 and the inaugural Virtual Poker League in 2020. With this win, the Deccan Aces earned a massive INR 1 Crore and cemented their reputation as one of the most formidable teams in the league.
The Grand Finale Showdown
The path to the Deccan Aces’ victory was not easy. After the elimination of Gujarat Falcons, six teams remained in the race for the crown: Deccan Aces led by Kunal Patni, defending champions Mumbai Anchors captained by Laksh Pal Singh, Gaurav Sood’s Lucknow Kings, Bengaluru Allstars helmed by Zarvan Tumboli, Kolkata Wizards having Shardul P. as the caption, and Goa Gators.
The Kolkata Wizards entered the final day with a commanding chip lead, while the Deccan Aces started as the underdogs with the second-shortest stack. But poker is a game of strategy and resilience, and the Deccan Aces led by the ace pro Kunal Patni proved their mettle by making bold moves and executing a flawless strategy leading them to rise above the rest and claim the ultimate glory.
The Kolkata Wizards, despite holding the chip lead into the final day, ended up as the runners-up for a handsome INR 60 Lakhs prize. The Lucknow Kings rounded out the podium finishes, taking home INR 40 Lakhs for their third-place finish.
Key Players Behind the Victory
The Deccan Aces’ success was driven by a talented roster. The team comprised of Advait Rajguru (wild card), Mithun Mahesh, Abhimanyu Mittal, Mohak Kapoor and fierce qualifiers like Mohsin Shaikh, Suneeth Kalmady, Bittu Chaudhuri, Jaikishan Jangid, Shriram P, and Y Srinuvasu. A special mention to Mithun Mahesh, whose incredible skill carried the team through 7-handed play, where he was joined by Advait Rajguru and later by captain Kunal Patni as they faced the final three. Mahesh was crowned Player of the Season and awarded an additional INR 2 Lakhs for his top-notch performance.
Kunal Patni: The Most Successful PSL Captain
With this latest win, Kunal Patni has solidified his place as the most successful captain in Poker Sports League history with three team event titles. His inspiring leadership and tactical prowess, combined with the team’s exceptional talent and skills, made the Deccan Aces’ victory a well-deserved one.
A Look Back at Previous PSL Champions
Since its inception in 2017, the Poker Sports League has seen six thrilling editions. The inaugural season found its champions in Delhi Panthers, who took home INR 1.50 Crores. Season 2, held in May 2018, saw Goan Nuts emerge victorious with a prize of INR 2 Crores. The Season 3, which was held virtually, crowned the Kunal Patni-led Deccan Aces as the champions. In April 2022, Shardul Parthasarathi’s Kolkata Kings won Season 4 in a hybrid “phygital” format, bagging INR 72 Lakhs. Last year, the Mumbai Anchors, led by Laksh Pal Singh, took the Season 5 title and INR 75 Lakhs in prize money.
More details to follow shortly. Keep following PokerProNews for more updates on PSL Season 6.
Source: PokerGuru/Poker Sports League
Images Credit: PokerGuru/Poker Sports League
