Karnataka’s Padikkal Shines Bright in Tense Madhya Pradesh Clash – Ranji Trophy 2025-26

Devdutt Padikkal’s return is set to enhance Karnataka’s prospects as they gear up to face Madhya Pradesh in the Elite ‘B’ Ranji Trophy match, starting at the Alur (1) ground in Bengaluru on Thursday.

Padikkal has been in outstanding form, amassing significant runs in the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali and Vijay Hazare Trophy limited-over tournaments. Despite playing only one game this Ranji season, the southpaw is expected to open the batting alongside captain Mayank Agarwal.

Karnataka heads into this crucial group-stage match as the leader (21 points), holding a three-point advantage over their closest rivals, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.

Padikkal’s presence offers some comfort to the home team, which will be without the injured R. Smaran. Smaran has been among Karnataka’s standout batters in the tournament, scoring 595 runs at an average of 119.

The stability of the middle order depends heavily on Karun Nair, who is the team’s highest run-scorer. His excellent form continued into the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where Karnataka advanced to the semifinals.

Another seasoned player, Shreyas Gopal, has been impressive with the ball. The leg-spinner took a 10-wicket haul in their previous match against Chandigarh and is currently the tournament’s fourth-highest wicket-taker (27 wickets).

Shreyas, along with fellow spinner Shikhar Shetty and pace leader Vidwath Kaverappa, will be challenging talented Madhya Pradesh batsmen Rajat Patidar and Venkatesh Iyer.

Madhya Pradesh will be counting on Saransh Jain, who has claimed 19 wickets with his off-spin while also contributing valuable runs. Saransh, alongside left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya, strengthens Madhya Pradesh’s formidable spin attack.

A win for Madhya Pradesh would be crucial in the heated race to secure a knockout-stage spot.

Published on January 21, 2026.