Ranji Trophy 2023-24: Karnataka faces second of reckoning in quarterfinal conflict in opposition to Vidarbha

Karnataka captain Mayank Agarwal insisted this his aspect will not be involved about any opponent, however proceedings on the final two days day of its Ranji Trophy encounter in opposition to Chandigarh at Hubballi steered in any other case.

By delaying the declaration, and going by means of the motions with ball in hand, Karnataka didn’t push onerous for a win. As a outcome, a quarterfinal conflict with Saurashtra – Karnataka’s bane in latest knockout matches – was averted.

Karnataka’s flip on the fork within the highway has led to a last-eight outing in opposition to Vidarbha, which won’t take kindly to being considered as the better opponent, and is certain to take the sector with a chip on the shoulder.

READ | Ricky Bhui believes present Ranji Trophy version has been a ‘breakthrough season’ for him

Vidarbha, the Elite Group A topper, boasts of a robust batting line-up, with the likes of Karun Nair, Dhruv Shorey, Atharva Taide and Akshay Wadkar standing tall.

This is a very memorable second for Nair, who will tackle his former statemates. Left out of the Karnataka squad, he made the transfer to Vidarbha firstly of this season. The 32-year-old would love nothing greater than to get a giant one right here and show that he’s nonetheless a drive to reckon with.

Fine performances from V. Vyshak, Hardik Raj and Sharath Srinivas at Hubballi will please Karnataka. Vyshak, primarily a quick bowler, confirmed ability as a batter to attain an unbeaten century. Vyshak’s exploits as an all-rounder provides significantly to the workforce steadiness.

ALSO READ | Yashasvi Jaiswal breaks into top-20 of ICC Test Rankings

“I must credit Vyshak for working hard on his batting. I’ve spoken to him about how he can add value as a batsman. In his younger days, he was a proper batsman. Modern-day cricket prefers people who add two or three skills. Vyshak has taken up the challenge, and he actually asks for the chance to go out and bat in pressure situations,” Agarwal stated.

Hardik, 17, got here of age with a refined 82 and a four-for within the first essay. The teenager is effectively outfitted to thrive in his first high-pressure Ranji Trophy knockout recreation.

Wicketkeeper-batter Srinivas will stroll with confidence, having recorded his maiden First-Class hundred.

Has Karnataka picked the precise opponent? Or has this lit a fireplace beneath Vidarbha?