Ranji Trophy: Karnataka face stern Saurashtra test as campaign hangs in balance

BENGALURU: Saurashtra have often been a thorn in Karnataka’s side, and their rivalry has produced its share of gripping contests. Last season, Saurashtra edged Karnataka on the first-innings lead in a league game. But the more painful memory is their four-wicket win in the 2022-23 Ranji Trophy semifinals at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.The teams renew their rivalry on Sunday in their second league engagement of the season, with Karnataka already under pressure to get their campaign back on track.Saurashtra are a formidable unit, boasting a deep batting line-up and a bowling attack equally adept with pace and spin. Ravindra Jadeja’s absence may not hurt them much, given their proven bench strength.At the KSCA Alur Stadium, where Karnataka lost to Madhya Pradesh in their previous outing, stand-in skipper Shreyas Gopal and his team face a stiff challenge. Rain and overcast conditions could further complicate matters for the hosts, who will also be without key batters Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul and R Smaran.After conceding the first-innings lead to Andhra in their season opener, Karnataka have just one point and little margin for another slip-up. For head coach and former captain R Vinay Kumar, the challenges begin with getting the batting order right.Mayank Agarwal has had an underwhelming start to the season, managing scores of five and 18. With Rahul away on national duty, Mayank will have a new opening partner, with the choice between KV Aneesh, who has struggled for runs, and newcomer Rohan Patil. KL Shijith will be a crucial cog in the top order. Karun Nair, who struck a second-innings century in the previous match, will anchor the middle order, with Nikin Jose and Aneeshwar Gautam also in the mix.With a pace-friendly surface expected, Karnataka will look to the experience of Vidwath Kaverappa and Vyshak Vijayakumar, both returning from injuries. Manvanth Kumar and left-arm spinner Abhilash Shetty are also options, though Karnataka could opt for a lone specialist spinner in Shreyas, with Shikhar Shetty providing another spin option.Saurashtra, meanwhile, are set to field a settled side led by veteran pacer Jaydev Unadkat. Their batting line-up features seasoned campaigners Harvik Desai, Chirag Jani, Jay Gohil and Arpit Vasavada. Prerak Mankad also comes into the contest on the back of a crucial 129 against Chhattisgarh.Unadkat will have support from Chetan Sakariya and Chirag Jani in the pace department.Vinay Kumar is under no illusion about the task ahead.“They are obviously strong. Nowadays, you can't take any team lightly in domestic cricket. Anybody can come and win a game against you. We need to play our best game. Saurashtra plays hard cricket and won't give up easily. But we are also ready to take the challenge,” he said.For Karnataka to avoid another early setback, they will need contributions across the board, and the resolve to match Saurashtra’s intensity.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.