In a clash between two of India’s most successful domestic cricket giants, Karnataka staged a historic run chase to beat arch-rivals Mumbai by four wickets. The quarter-final at the MCA-BKC Ground in Mumbai belonged to KL Rahul, whose sublime fourth-innings century kept Karnataka firmly alive in their pursuit of a first Ranji Trophy title since 2015.
Chasing a daunting target of 325 on a worn surface on Day 4, Karnataka’s hopes rested squarely on their veteran star. After losing Mayank Agarwal early for just 3, Rahul walked out with intent. He not only anchored the innings; he dictated his pace and punished whatever was released from the Mumbai pace duo of Shardul Thakur and Tushar Deshpande.
Rahul’s 24th first-class century came off just 147 balls, an innings marked by classic drives and a clinical V-shape approach that effectively neutralized Mumbai’s spin threat. He found solid support in captain Devdutt Padikkal (39) with whom he added 84 runs to sustain the chase. Later, a partnership of over 130 with Smaran Ravichandran took the game away from the hosts and allowed Karnataka to cross the line with four wickets in hand.
HOW KL RAHUL STRENGTHENED KARNATAKA
Rahul’s return to domestic cricket was a significant boost for Karnataka. He hit a vital half-century in their final Group B match against Punjab in Mohali last week, underlining his form as the side enjoyed a resurgent campaign in this edition of the Ranji Trophy. The Indian opener was earlier in good touch during the ODI series against New Zealand, scoring a valiant century in Rajkotbefore making himself available for Ranji Trophy duties immediately after the series.
The quarter final itself was like a roller coaster from the opening part. Mumbai’s decision to bat on Day 1 proved costly as they were bundled out for just 120. Karnataka’s bowling attack, led by Prasidh Krishna and Vidwath Kaverappa, supported by Shreyas Gopal, shared nine wickets between them.
However, Mumbai showed why they are the 42-time champions by putting up a spirited fightback. Despite conceding a 53-run first innings lead – thanks in large part to Mayank Agarwal’s gutsy 92 – their second innings was a display of resilience. Akash Anand (70) played a key role while contributions from Tanush Kotian (48*) and Tushar Deshpande (47) lifted Mumbai to 377, which many believed would be beyond Karnataka’s reach.
With this win, Karnataka not only secured their place in the semi-finals but also sent a strong message to the remaining contestants. The inclusion of Indian internationals like Rahul and Prasidh Krishna has turned the youthful side into a balanced force.
For Mumbai, the disappointing defeat means their title defense is over, although the arrival of young talents like Musheer Khan and Akash Anand offers a silver lining. Karnataka, meanwhile, will turn their attention to the semi-finals as they look to end an 11-year wait and reclaim their spot atop the domes.
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Issued by:
Akshay Ramesh
Published on:
February 9, 2026
