Mohali, Jan 26 (.) Karnataka have thrown a few surprises ahead of their Ranji Trophy 2025-26 tie against Punjab.
Devdutt Padikkal has been handed the captaincy, replacing Mayank Agarwal, while KL Rahul makes a timely return to bolster the batting lineup. The match will be played here at the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium starting February 1.
Padikkal’s elevation is well-earned. He has been in sensational form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, piling up 725 runs in nine innings at an average of over 90. That kind of consistency at the top is exactly what a captain needs, not just to lead, but to inspire confidence in the middle order.
Mayank, now relieved of leadership duties, will focus purely on his batting, a luxury that might see him unlock some big scores.
Rahul’s inclusion brings experience and composure to a Karnataka side that is currently third in Elite Group B. After shining in India’s recent ODI series against New Zealand, he adds both stability and the ability to accelerate the innings when needed.
The bowling department, meanwhile, gets a boost with the return of Prasidh Krishna, who complements the experience of Vidwath Kaverappa and Mohsin Khan.
There are, however, challenges. Middle-order batsman Abhinav Manohar has been dropped, and the absence of senior batsman Karun Nair due to injury is a blow. Nair’s experience in handling pressure situations would have been valuable, but the squad still has the depth and skill to compete strongly.
The Karnataka lineup balances youth and experience well. Padikkal, Rahul, Mayank, KV Aneesh, R Smaran, and Shreyas Gopal form a solid top and middle order, while Kruthik Krishna and KL Shrijith provide capable options behind the stumps.
The bowling attack looks potent, with Prasidh leading, supported by Kaverappa, Mohsin, Vidyadhar Patil, Dhruv Prabhakar, and Shikhar Shetty. If they fire in unison, Punjab will have a tough time.
Karnataka Squad: Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Aneesh KV, Devdutt Padikkal (Captain), Smaran R, Shreyas Gopal, Kruthik Krishna (WK), Venkatesh M, Vidyadhar Patil, Vidwath Kaverappa, Prasidh M Krishna, Mohsin Khan, Shikhar Shetty, Shrijith KL (WK), Dhruv Prabhakar.
Karnataka now face the real test: blending leadership, form, and experience to take a decisive step in this Ranji season. If Padikkal can lead from the front and Rahul provides the backbone, this side has the ingredients to go all the way.
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