Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Round 4 preview: Struggling Kerala revamps squad ahead of must-win clash against winless Saurashtra
Kerala has endured one of its worst starts in Ranji Trophy in recent times and with just two points from three matches, last year’s surprise runner-up desperately seeks a turnaround when it meets Saurashtra in the Elite Group B match at the KCA ground, Mangalapuram on Saturday.
In the last two matches, the experiment to open with a nightwatchman was flawed and backfired to put pressure on a misfiring batting lineup.
The demoralising defeat at the hands of Karnataka exposed the frailties of the host in both batting and bowling departments. A bowling attack entirely dependent on helpful conditions was mauled by Karun Nair (233) and R. Smaran (220 not out) who forged a match-winning triple century stand for the fourth wicket against Kerala.
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Anik Sharma’s injury and the rustiness of his replacement Vaisakh Chandran and inexperience of debutant spinner M.U. Harikrishnan increased the workload on the medium pacers M.D.Nidheesh and N.P. Basil. Both Nidheesh and Basil bowled well in patches but weren’t threatening enough against Karnataka which recovered from 13 for two to post an imposing 586 for five declared.
The out-of-form Akshay Chandran and Shoun Roger were dropped and under-23 batters Varun Nayanar and Akarsh A. Krishnamurthy were drafted into the squad for the match against Saurashtra. Medium pacer Sibin Girish was called up as a cover for Eden Apple Tom who is nursing an injured finger. Eden Apple Tom’s stubborn batting, which must have shamed the regular top order batters, was the only positive which the host took from defeat against Karnataka,
The good news for Kerala on the eve of the must-win-match against Saurashtra is that Ankit Sharma and Rohan Kunnummal will be available for selection. But Salman Nizar’s injury hasn’t healed which has ruled him out.
Saurashtra, with five points, is seeking its first win this season and will certainly fancy its chances against Kerala. Jayadev Unadkat led side has a clutch of match winners with both bat and ball, capable of seizing big moments against a side whose morale is at its lowest ebb.
Published on Nov 07, 2025
