Karnal, Jan. 25 -- Karnal Kings held their nerve in a dramatic contest to defeat Rohtak Royals 43-41 in Match 2 of the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), delivering a thrilling encounter marked by momentum swings and late drama, giving a thrilling end to day 1 of the league, according to a release.

Rohtak Royals won the toss, but it was Karnal Kings who struck first as Surender Gill opened the scoring with the first raid of the match. Rohtak responded with equal intensity, and the opening exchanges saw the score tied at 3-3. Gill continued to trouble the Royals, managing a bonus point even when his raid was defended, as Karnal tightened their defence to build a crucial three-point lead.

Rohtak fought back during Karnal's do-or-die raid, ex...