Drama unfolded at the MCA Cricket Ground as Karnataka scripted a comeback story against Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals. Chasing 325, they won by four wickets, propelled by KL Rahul’s century-plus masterpiece, earning him Player of the Match honors.
Rahul’s 130 from 182 deliveries, featuring 14 fours and one six, was a lesson in patience and power. Out when 59 runs were adrift, his innings paved the way for S. Ravichandran (83*) and Vidyadhar Patil (31*) to guide the team home. Padikkal’s 39 provided early momentum.
Mumbai’s first innings imploded after Thakur opted to bat. Herwadkar’s 60 aside, they crumbled to 120 against Karnataka’s bowlers. Kaverappa, Krishna, Gopal grabbed three wickets each, Patil one.
Karnataka stumbled to 173 in reply, Agarwal’s 92 the highlight, but the 53-run lead proved vital. Mumbai fought back with Awasthi and Deshpande’s 4/4 figures each.
Posting 377 in the second dig, Mumbai set a stern chase. Yet, Karnataka’s batsmen displayed nerves of steel, rewriting the script in a match full of twists.
This victory not only avenges past defeats but positions Karnataka as serious contenders. Rahul’s form signals big things ahead for Indian cricket.