Hubballi, November 16, 2025 - A masterful century by R Smaran (110*) and a near-century knock from Karun Nair (95) have placed Karnataka in a commanding position against Chandigarh on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match. Karnataka ended the day with a score of 298 for 5.
Karnataka's innings was built around a crucial 119-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Smaran and Nair, rescuing the team from a potentially shaky situation. Smaran's unbeaten century, his first of the season, was crafted with resilience and composure, while Nair's aggressive 95 showcased his vast experience and determination to return to the national reckoning.
Earlier in the day, Chandigarh's bowlers managed to make early inroads, but the Smaran-Nair partnership proved to be the turning point. Smaran's innings was laced with 11 boundaries and a six, demonstrating a fine blend of caution and aggression. Nair, on the other hand, struck 12 boundaries and a six, putting pressure on the Chandigarh bowlers. At the end of the day, Shreyas Gopal was batting alongside Smaran with a score of 38*.
This is not the first time this season that Smaran and Nair have shone with the bat. Earlier in the tournament, both batsmen scored double centuries against Kerala, highlighting their consistency and importance to the Karnataka batting lineup. In that match, Nair scored 233 runs, while Smaran remained not out at 220. Their 343-run partnership against Kerala underscored their ability to dominate attacks and set up commanding totals.
The strong start against Chandigarh is crucial for Karnataka, who are aiming to climb the points table after mixed results in the initial rounds. With Smaran set at the crease and Shreyas Gopal providing solid support, Karnataka will look to add significantly to their total on the second day.
Brief scores from other Group B matches: In Mullanpur, Maharashtra posted 275/5 against Punjab, with Arshin Kulkarni scoring 133 and Prithvi Shaw contributing 74. In Rajkot, Saurashtra reached 317/4 against Baroda, powered by Prerak Mankad's 88 and Arpit Vasavada's 81.
