Fri Jan 16 18:20:00 UTC 2026: # Vidarbha Stuns Defending Champions Karnataka to Reach Vijay Hazare Trophy Final
The Story:
Vidarbha delivered a commanding performance, defeating defending champion Karnataka by six wickets in the first semi-final of the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy at the BCCI Centre of Excellence near Bengaluru. Opener Aman Mokhade’s brilliant century (138 off 122 balls) propelled Vidarbha to victory, marking their second consecutive appearance in the final. They will now face Saurashtra in the summit clash, aiming to secure their first domestic 50-over title after last season’s defeat.
Key Points:
- Vidarbha defeated defending champion Karnataka by 6 wickets.
- Aman Mokhade scored 138 runs, his fifth century of the tournament, and became the leading run-scorer with 781 runs.
- R. Samarth contributed an unbeaten 76.
- Karnataka’s R. Smaran missed the match due to a shoulder niggle, and V. Vyshak left the field after bowling just four overs due to a concussion.
- Darshan Nalkande took 5 wickets for 48 runs.
- Saurashtra defeated Punjab in the other semi-final and will play Vidarbha in the final.
Key Takeaways:
- Vidarbha’s strong batting performance, particularly Aman Mokhade’s century, was crucial to their victory.
- Karnataka’s batting lineup, despite individual contributions, couldn’t reach a formidable total due to key dismissals and injuries.
- Vidarbha’s excellent bowling, led by Darshan Nalkande’s five-wicket haul, restricted Karnataka’s scoring.
- Vidarbha demonstrated strategic depth and momentum, showcasing their determination to win the Vijay Hazare Trophy after missing out last season.
- The final between Vidarbha and Saurashtra promises to be a competitive match, with both teams displaying strong performances throughout the tournament.
First Piper 