New Delhi: In a near-record chase against Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy champions, Karnataka successfully pursued a challenging target of 383 in their opening Vijay Hazare Trophy match. They secured a dominant 7-wicket win over Mumbai, with wicketkeeper Krishan Shrijith‘s remarkable 150* off 101 balls leading the charge at the Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground in Ahmedabad.
This chase, just one run shy of Andhra Pradesh’s 384 against Goa in the 2011–12 season, became the second-highest total ever chased in a Vijay Hazare Trophy match. It also ranks as the fifth-highest List A chase, with South Africa’s iconic 435-run chase against Australia in Johannesburg in 2005 still standing as the benchmark.
Every batter played a vital role in Karnataka’s successful chase. Nikin Jose gave a solid start, scoring 21, while captain Mayank Agarwal contributed 47 to establish a strong foundation. KV Aneesh boosted the chase with a quick 82, and wicketkeeper Krishan Shrijith played a standout knock of 150*, featuring 20 fours and 4 sixes, ensuring Karnataka stayed ahead of the required run rate throughout the chase.
Praveen Dubey played a key role in maintaining Karnataka’s momentum after Aneesh’s dismissal, with Mumbai closing in on the target. His unbeaten 65 off 50 balls provided valuable support to Shrijith. Ultimately, Karnataka chased down the target with 22 balls to spare, with Shrijith’s outstanding 150* being the highlight of the match.
Shivam Dube showcased his power-hitting skills earlier in the match, while Shreyas Iyer dazzled with an incredible 114* off just 55 balls. At the halfway point, Mumbai likely believed they had set a competitive total. However, Karnataka’s relentless pressure against an inexperienced bowling attack kept them in the game. Mumbai’s troubles deepened when their leading bowler, Shardul Thakur, conceded 72 runs in just six overs, exacerbating the situation.
