Uttarakhand blown away by the storm of KL Rahul and Padikkal, Karnataka took steps towards the final by scoring huge scores:

News India Live, Digital Desk: Karnataka has strengthened its hold in the first semi-final of Ranji Trophy. In this match being played at Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, Karnataka’s star batsmen KL Rahul and captain Devdutt Padikkal defeated the bowlers of Uttarakhand with brilliant centuries. By the end of the third day’s play, Karnataka had moved towards a score from which it would be no less than a challenge for Uttarakhand to make a comeback.

‘Jugalbandi’ of KL Rahul and Padikkal

Recovering from the initial shock of the match (Mayank Agarwal 5 runs), experienced KL Rahul and young sensation Devdutt Padikkal made a huge partnership of 278 runs. Rahul played a classic inning of 141 runs, which included 11 fours and 5 skyscraper sixes. On the other hand, captain Padikkal, continuing his excellent form, has taken steps towards scoring an unbeaten double century. He completely neutralized Uttarakhand’s bowling by hitting shots all around the ground.

Uttarakhand’s strategies failed

Uttarakhand’s decision to bowl first after winning the toss proved wrong when Karnataka’s batsmen took full advantage of the pitch. Aditya Rawat was somewhat successful from Uttarakhand’s side, but other bowlers were seen yearning to take wickets. Karnataka has scored a mountain of more than 700 runs in its first innings, due to which Uttarakhand is in danger of losing by an innings.

turning point of the match

The average with which Karnataka scored runs on the second and third days of the match pushed Uttarakhand on the backfoot. Karun Nair and Smaran R. Has also made useful contribution and has brought the team to a very safe situation. Now the entire onus is on the batsmen of Uttarakhand to see how they face the deadly bowling of Karnataka.