Karnataka produced one of their finest performances in recent Ranji Trophy history as they pulled off a memorable four-wicket victory over arch-rivals Mumbai in a high-pressure quarter-final at the MCA-BKC Ground. Chasing a challenging target of 325 on a deteriorating Day 4 surface, Karnataka leaned heavily on the class and composure of KL Rahul, who delivered a masterful fourth-innings century to guide his team into the semi-finals.
After the early loss of Mayank Agarwal for just three runs, Rahul took control of the chase with remarkable authority. Rather than simply occupying the crease, the former India captain dictated the tempo, capitalising on anything loose from Mumbai’s seamers Shardul Thakur and Tushar Deshpande. His 24th first-class hundred came off just 147 balls and was a blend of classical strokeplay, precise footwork and a disciplined V-shaped batting approach that blunted Mumbai’s spin attack.
Rahul found valuable support from skipper Devdutt Padikkal, with the pair adding 84 crucial runs to stabilise the innings. Later, a match-defining partnership of over 130 runs with Smaran Ravichandran effectively sealed the contest, allowing Karnataka to reach the target with four wickets to spare and script a historic chase against one of domestic cricket’s most decorated teams.
Rahul’s return to the Ranji Trophy has significantly strengthened Karnataka’s campaign. He had earlier scored an important half-century in the final Group B match against Punjab in Mohali, continuing his strong form after a successful ODI series against New Zealand, where he struck a century in Rajkot. His immediate availability for domestic duties has clearly paid dividends.
The quarter-final itself saw dramatic momentum shifts. Mumbai’s decision to bat first backfired as they were bowled out for 120 on Day 1, with Prasidh Krishna and Vidwath Kaverappa leading a disciplined Karnataka bowling effort, supported by Shreyas Gopal. Karnataka secured a 53-run first-innings lead, thanks largely to Mayank Agarwal’s fighting 92.
True to their reputation as 42-time champions, Mumbai mounted a strong comeback in the second innings. Wicketkeeper-batter Akash Anand top-scored with 70, while late-order contributions from Tanush Kotian (48*) and Tushar Deshpande (47) lifted them to 377 and set a target that appeared daunting on a wearing pitch.
Karnataka’s successful chase not only knocked Mumbai out of the tournament but also sent a strong message to the remaining contenders. The presence of India internationals like Rahul and Prasidh Krishna has transformed a youthful Karnataka side into a well-rounded and formidable unit.
While Mumbai’s title defence came to a disappointing end, the emergence of young talents such as Musheer Khan and Akash Anand provided positives for the future. Karnataka, meanwhile, march into the semi-finals with renewed belief as they look to end an 11-year wait and reclaim the Ranji Trophy crown.
