Thu Jan 30 10:51:51 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy hopes take a hit after shaky start against Haryana
Bengaluru: Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy campaign suffered a setback in a crucial match against Haryana. KL Rahul, playing for Karnataka, was dismissed for 26 runs off 37 balls, despite a promising start.
While Rahul’s departure was a blow, Karnataka ended the day on a relatively strong footing, reaching 193/3 at stumps. Mayank Agarwal top-scored with a 91-run knock, laying the foundation for a potentially competitive total. Devadatt Padikkal (27) and Ravi Chandran Ashwin (17) were at the crease when play ended. Anshul Kamboj took two wickets for Haryana.
Karnataka lost an early wicket, Anish’s falling for 17 when the score was just 45. Rahul, however, initially looked confident, hitting four boundaries before falling to Kamboj after a 54-run partnership with Agarwal. A late partnership of 62 runs between Mayank and Devadatt Padikkal bolstered the innings. However, Mayank missed out on a century by nine runs.
This match is critical for Karnataka, who are currently second in Group C with 19 points. Haryana, with 26 points, have already secured a quarter-final berth. Karnataka needs to win and hope that Kerala (21 points) loses to Bihar to secure their own place in the quarterfinals. Even a draw for Kerala after taking the lead in the first innings could still jeopardize Karnataka’s chances.
First Piper 