Mayank Agarwal (PTI Photo)
SHIVAMOGGA: The Ranji Trophy format offers very little room for error, a fact Karnataka learned the hard way after a disappointing season opener. They managed only a single point against Saurashtra, having conceded a crucial first-innings lead by just four runs. Now, they find themselves playing catch-up in the league.
Last season, Karnataka’s campaign was significantly hampered by adverse weather. While unpredictable conditions will remain a factor, the immediate challenge for Captain Mayank Agarwal and his squad is to adapt and maximize play on sunny days. This crucial test begins at KSCA Navule Stadium, which is hosting a Ranji Trophy game after a five-year hiatus, starting this Saturday against Goa.
Further compounding Karnataka’s challenges is the absence of their star batsman, Devdutt Padikkal, who has been selected for the India ‘A’ home series against South Africa ‘A’. In his absence, the batting lineup will heavily depend on the experience and leadership of seasoned professionals like Agarwal and Karun Nair, with R Smaran also expected to play a pivotal role.
Should the team management decide to shuffle the batting order, Abhinav Monohar might step into Padikkal’s middle-order slot, or KV Aneesh could be brought into the playing XI.
Another area of concern for Karnataka is the current form of wicketkeeper KL Shrijith, whose performance against Saurashtra was less than ideal. His struggles, particularly against spin bowling, cost the team dearly. Shrijith will need to significantly elevate his game, especially with the promising Kruthik Krishna eagerly awaiting his opportunity.
On a more positive note, Karnataka’s bowling attack will be significantly strengthened by the return of key pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Vyshak Vijaykumar, both of whom missed the season opener. Their rejoining the squad might lead to Abhilash Shetty and M Venkatesh being benched. However, head coach Yere Goud could opt for a three-pronged pace attack, in which case one of them might retain their spot, with either Shikhar Shetty or Mohsin Khan joining leggie Shreyas Gopal in the spin department.
Goan Challenge
Despite playing on home turf, Goa presents a formidable challenge. Led by Snehal Kauthankar, the team, promoted from the Plate group last season, began their campaign with an impressive innings and 75-run victory over Chandigarh. Their batting lineup saw a magnificent display with Lalit Yadav scoring 213 and Abhinav Tejrana hitting 205, both achieving double centuries. Their disciplined bowling attack, spearheaded by Darshan Misa, secured a comfortable win within three days.
Adding an interesting twist, the Goan squad features a distinct Karnataka flavor. Medium pacer V Koushik, who transferred from Karnataka this year, is set to make his Ranji Trophy debut for Goa against his former team. Notably, former India pacer Dodda Ganesh serves as the assistant coach for the Goan side.
With rain predicted for the upcoming days and the stadium’s proximity to a lake, even light showers could spell trouble for Mayank Agarwal and his team, potentially impacting their chances to secure a vital win.