NewKerala.com

KL Rahul Returns to Karnataka Squad for Ranji Trophy; Devdutt Padikkal to Lead

KL Rahul has been included in the Karnataka squad for their upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Punjab, marking a significant boost for the side. The team will be led by Devdutt Padikkal, with pace bowler Prasidh Krishna also returning to the squad. However, the middle order will miss the experienced Karun Nair, who is out injured. Karnataka will be aiming to bounce back from a heavy defeat to Madhya Pradesh when they face Punjab in Mohali.

Key Points: KL Rahul Named in Karnataka Ranji Trophy Squad vs Punjab

  • KL Rahul returns to red-ball cricket
  • Devdutt Padikkal named captain
  • Prasidh Krishna bolsters pace attack
  • Karun Nair ruled out due to injury
1 min read

Ranji Trophy: KL Rahul named in Karnataka squad; Devdutt Padikkal to lead

KL Rahul returns to red-ball cricket for Karnataka's Ranji Trophy match against Punjab. Devdutt Padikkal to lead the squad, which also includes Prasidh Krishna.

"Rahul's inclusion will be a significant boost for Karnataka - Report"

Bengaluru, January 26

India's star batter KL Rahul has been named in Karnataka's squad for their upcoming 2025/26 Ranji Trophy match against Punjab in Mohali, starting January 29.

Rahul's inclusion will be a significant boost for Karnataka, while the team will be led by Devdutt Padikkal. Speedster Prasidh Krishna is also included in the squad, further bolstering their pace attack.

In a major blow to Karnataka's middle-order experience veteran batter Karun Nair will miss the match due to injury. Rahul's last red-ball match was against South Africa in November last year.

Karnataka will now eye a much-needed win after a massive defeat to Madhya Pradesh by 217 runs. Karnataka started their Ranji Trophy campaign with draws against Saurashtra and Goa in October last year.

Karnataka then defeated Kerala and Chandigarh to get their season going, while drawing one against Maharashtra. The team will be looking to bounce back and secure a victory against Punjab.

Karnataka Squad: Mayank Agarawal, KL Rahul, Aneesh KV, Devdutt Padikkal (Captain), Smaran R, Shreyas Gopal, Kruthik Krishna (WK), Venkatesh M, Vidyadhar Patil, Vidwath Kaverappa, Prasidh M Krishna, Mohsin Khan, Shikhar Shetty, Shrijith KL (WK), and Dhruv Prabhakar.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Padikkal leading is an exciting move. He's been in good form. But honestly, the squad looks a bit thin in the middle order without Karun Nair. Hope the young guys like Smaran R step up. The pace attack with Prasidh and Kaverappa looks strong though.
A
Aman W
As a Punjabi, I'm nervous! Karnataka's batting just got a massive upgrade with Rahul. Our bowlers will have their work cut out. Should be a cracking match in Mohali. May the best team win! 🏏
S
Sarah B
It's crucial for players like Rahul to play domestic cricket. Shows respect for the Ranji Trophy. Good for the younger players in the squad to share the dressing room with him. Hope this is a trend other senior players follow when not on national duty.
V
Vikram M
The team really needs to bounce back. That defeat by 217 runs was embarrassing for a powerhouse like Karnataka. Rahul's inclusion is a boost, but everyone needs to contribute. Bowling first and getting early wickets will be key in Mohali.
K
Karthik V
With all due respect, I'm not fully convinced by the squad selection. Where is the proven, experienced middle-order batter to replace Nair? Relying too much on Rahul and Padikkal. The think tank needs to plan better for the long season ahead.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50