Karnataka Reach Ranji Trophy Final After 11 Years as Padikkal’s Double Century Powers Dominant Semifinal
Karnataka have booked their place in the Ranji Trophy final for the first time since the 2014-15 season after securing a crucial first-innings lead against Uttarakhand in the semifinal at Ekana Stadium. Led by Devdutt Padikkal, the eight-time champions produced a commanding all-round performance to end an 11-year wait for a title clash. They will now face Jammu and Kashmir, who created history by reaching their maiden final after defeating Bengal.
Batting first after losing the toss, Karnataka produced one of the most dominant batting displays of the season. The side piled up 736 runs across nearly two days, anchored by captain Devdutt Padikkal’s commanding 232 off 330 deliveries. KL Rahul continued his strong domestic form with 141, while Smaran Ravichandran added 135 to push the total beyond Uttarakhand’s reach.
Karnataka’s bowlers then took control, dismissing Uttarakhand for 233 to secure a massive 503-run first-innings lead — the decisive factor for qualification. Vidyadhar Patil and Vijaykumar Vyshak claimed three wickets each, while Shreyas Gopal contributed with two.
In the second innings, Karnataka extended their advantage with another solid batting effort. Ravichandran struck 127 and Rahul remained unbeaten on 86 as the team added 323 runs more. Set an improbable target of 827, Uttarakhand fought hard on the final day, reaching 260/6 before both captains agreed to a draw, confirming Karnataka’s entry into the final.
Team members praised Padikkal’s leadership and batting discipline, highlighting the collective contribution from the top order. Bowlers were credited for maintaining pressure and ensuring the first-innings lead remained decisive. Officials also acknowledged Uttarakhand’s resilience, particularly their final-day resistance led by Aditya Rawat and Abhay Negi.
Sources indicate that Hubli’s KSCA Rajnagar Stadium is currently leading the race to host the Ranji Trophy final, though the Board of Control for Cricket in India has yet to make an official announcement.
Karnataka’s return to the Ranji Trophy final reflects the strength of their domestic structure and experienced batting core. The presence of international players such as KL Rahul alongside emerging talents like Smaran Ravichandran demonstrates the team’s depth.
Jammu and Kashmir’s historic qualification adds a compelling narrative to the final, marking one of the most significant achievements for the region’s cricket programme. The matchup is expected to draw nationwide attention, blending tradition with a breakthrough storyline.
Karnataka’s semifinal victory was built on batting dominance, disciplined bowling, and strategic control across both innings. With Padikkal leading from the front, the team now heads into the Ranji Trophy final aiming to reclaim the title, while Jammu and Kashmir prepare for a landmark contest in Indian domestic cricket.
Our Final Thoughts
Karnataka’s return to the Ranji Trophy final signals a revival of one of India’s most consistent domestic teams. The semifinal highlighted how experienced leadership and emerging talent can combine to produce dominant performances. Padikkal’s double century set the tone, while contributions from Rahul and Ravichandran reinforced the side’s batting depth. The upcoming final carries added intrigue with Jammu and Kashmir’s historic entry, representing the evolving landscape of Indian domestic cricket. The clash promises a mix of legacy and breakthrough ambition, making it one of the most anticipated Ranji finals in recent years.