Karnataka’s dream run in the Ranji Trophy continued as they outclassed defending champions Mumbai in the quarter-final clash at Wankhede’s MCA ground. The four-wicket victory catapults them into the semifinals, with KL Rahul emerging as the undisputed star.
Faced with a daunting 325 to win in the final innings, Rahul anchored the chase brilliantly. His 130-run essay, laced with 14 boundaries and a maximum off 182 balls, provided the perfect platform. Falling at number four with victory in sight, he left the finishing touches to his teammates.
Ravichandran’s unbeaten 83 off 123 balls and Patil’s quickfire 31 not out off 30 ensured there were no hiccups. Padikkal’s 39 added stability at the top. The target was overhauled with composure.
Earlier, Thakur’s call to bat first proved disastrous for Mumbai. Herwadkar’s 60 was the lone bright spot in a dismal 120 all out. Karnataka’s spin and pace attack was relentless, led by the trio of Kaverappa, Krishna, and Gopal with three scalps each.
Karnataka’s own first dig was rescued by Agarwal’s 92, but they managed 173, earning a 53-run lead thanks to Mumbai’s low total. Awasthi and Deshpande’s four-wicket hauls kept it competitive.
Mumbai’s second innings 377 extended the game, but Karnataka’s resolve shone through. This win marks a strong statement from the southern powerhouse in domestic cricket’s premier tournament.