Karnataka Dominate Ranji Semifinal with Spectacular 736 Total

Karnataka took a commanding lead in the Ranji Trophy semifinal by posting a first-innings total of 736 and reducing Uttarakhand to 149 for 5. Significant contributions from KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal set the stage, with Karnataka’s bowlers maintaining control, leaving Uttarakhand in deep trouble.

Karnataka edged closer to securing a spot in the Ranji Trophy final after setting a formidable first-innings total of 736 against Uttarakhand. Following two days of relentless batting, the team declared their innings on Tuesday, pushing Uttarakhand to a precarious 149 for 5 by the end of Day 3.

With Karnataka opting to bat on Day 3, overnight batters Ravichandran Smaran and Vidyadhar Patil extended their innings, contributing vital runs. Smaran's impressive 135 and Patil's resilient 54 underscored Karnataka's dominance, building on stellar performances by KL Rahul and skipper Devdutt Padikkal.

Challenging as it was, Uttarakhand's response was thwarted by Karnataka's efficient bowling. Lead pacer Vidyadhar Patil took two wickets, and despite resistance from Lakshya Raichandani and Jagadeesha Suchith, Uttarakhand ended the day in a troubled position, still trailing significantly.

(With inputs from agencies.)