Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Harvik, Chirag lead Saurashtra reply on second day against Karnataka
On a sweltering day, Saurashtra openers Harvik Desai (41, 104b, 2×4, 1×6) and Chirag Jani (90, 148b, 11×4, 1×6) turned the heat on Karnataka with a 140-run partnership that lit up the afternoon on day two of their Ranji Trophy Group B clash at the Niranjan Shah Stadium on Thursday.
The duo, displaying a blend of grit and elegant stroke play, wrested control of the game with a batting display that screamed intent.
After the visitor was bowled out for 372 in its first innings, Harvik and Chirag began the home side’s response in positive fashion, taking full advantage of the benign surface and humid conditions, which offered little assistance to the bowlers. The pair effortlessly found the fence and settled into a good rhythm.
Chirag, the more aggressive of the two, showcased an impressive range of strokes — fluent drives off both front and back foot, and sharp square cuts — keeping the scoreboard ticking and sustaining the pressure on the bowlers.
However, Karnataka clawed its way back with four quick wickets, courtesy of its spinners. Offie Mohsin Khan provided the much-needed breakthrough, trapping Harvik plumb in front. Shreyas Gopal then took charge, dismissing the well-set Chirag, and later sending back Jay Gohel (substitute for Tarang Gohel, who was ruled out after injuring his fingers) and Ansh Gosai, who was caught at forward short-leg.
The home side was at 200 for four when stumps were drawn.
Dharmendrasinh Jadeja his 25th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket.
| Photo Credit:
Vijay Soneji
Dharmendrasinh Jadeja his 25th five-wicket haul in first-class cricket.
| Photo Credit:
Vijay Soneji
Karnataka’s overnight batters R. Smaran and Shreyas, in pursuit of quick runs, fell in quick succession—the former becoming left-arm spinner Dharmendrasinh Jadeja’s fifth scalp, while the latter fell to Jaydev Unadkat, the skipper’s first.
However, a resilient 47-run stand for the final wicket between Shikhar Shetty and Abhilash Shetty lifted Karnataka to a competitive total, despite Jadeja’s seven-wicket haul. With the match finely poised, an exciting third day awaits.
Published on Oct 16, 2025
