The North News
Hubballi, February 23
Jammu and Kashmir’s entry into their maiden Ranji Trophy final is a heartwarming tale of grit and passion. However, to clinch the title, the underdogs will need to pull off a giant-sized miracle against eight-time champions Karnataka cricket team, starting Monday.
Karnataka carry the favourites’ tag not just because of their rich legacy, but due to a season in which they consistently overcame opponents, challenging conditions and key injuries.
After a slow start against Saurashtra cricket team in Rajkot, where they conceded a narrow first-innings lead, Karnataka bounced back strongly. Rivals Mumbai cricket team and newcomers Uttarakhand cricket team were handled with confidence, reflecting the team’s growing belief.
Their dominance has been driven by the outstanding form of KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Devdutt Padikkal, and Ravichandran Smaran.
Rahul (457 runs in 3 matches at 91.40), Karun (699 runs in 8 matches at 63.54), Devdutt (532 runs in 5 matches at 66.50), and Smaran (950 runs in 8 matches) have been prolific throughout the season.
Their performances have offset a modest campaign from Mayank Agarwal, who stepped down from captaincy with Devdutt taking charge. The left-hander has led confidently, both with the bat and tactically.
Karnataka’s strong batting, however, will be tested at the KSCA Stadium by a disciplined Jammu and Kashmir cricket team bowling unit led by Auqib Nabi, who has claimed 55 wickets this season. The pitch is expected to assist pacers early on.
It would be simplistic to view Karnataka as only a batting-heavy side. Their bowling attack is spearheaded by India pacer Prasidh Krishna, with solid support from Vidwath Kaverappa, Vidyadhar Patil, Vysakh Vijaykumar, Shikhar Shetty and Mohsin Khan.
One player who has made a significant impact is Shreyas Gopal.
The leg-spinner has taken 46 wickets and scored 442 runs at an average of 45 — impressive returns for an all-rounder. He has rescued Karnataka on multiple occasions and will remain central to their title ambitions.
Former Karnataka skipper R Vinay Kumar noted that Shreyas’ contributions with both bat and ball have strengthened the side across conditions.
Beyond skill, Karnataka also boasts experience in high-pressure finals. Rahul, Karun, Shreyas and Mayank were part of the team that completed the Ranji Trophy double in 2013-14 and 2014-15. Their experience could prove crucial in guiding younger teammates.
Jammu and Kashmir, who defeated Bengal cricket team and Madhya Pradesh cricket team to reach the final, may lack similar experience but are led by veteran Paras Dogra.
Dogra and head coach Ajay Sharma will need to steady nerves as J&K aim to deny Karnataka a ninth Ranji title.
The match begins at 9:30 am.
