Published:
Karun Nair produced a determined unbeaten 81 to keep Karnataka in contention against Andhra in their opening match of the 2026–27 Ranji Trophy season at the Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju Andhra Cricket Association Cricket Ground in Mulapadu, Vijayawada.
Karnataka reached 176/4 in 60 overs in their second innings at stumps on Day 3, building a 32-run lead after conceding a first-innings advantage of 144 runs. Nair’s innings gave the visitors hope of salvaging a draw in a challenging match.
Karnataka’s second innings began under pressure after Andhra posted 418 in reply to the visitors’ first-innings total of 274.
The experienced opening pair of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul fell cheaply, leaving Karnataka struggling at 25/2. Agarwal scored 18, while Rahul managed just one run.
Nair responded with a composed innings, combining caution with timely counterattacks to prevent Andhra from taking further control. He remained unbeaten on 81 from 130 deliveries, striking eight fours and two sixes.
His contribution was crucial in stabilising Karnataka’s innings after the early setbacks.
Nair shared a valuable 94-run partnership with Manvanth Kumar, who contributed 44. The stand helped Karnataka recover from their difficult start and reduced the immediate threat of an innings defeat.
Nair then continued the rebuilding effort alongside captain Ravichandran Smaran, who was unbeaten on 21 at the close of play.
Karnataka finished the day at 176/4, with Nair still at the crease and the team holding a narrow overall lead.
Andhra’s first-innings total of 418 gave them a significant advantage after Karnataka had been dismissed for 274.
Karnataka’s bowlers had earlier fought back through Shikhar Shetty, who claimed six wickets. However, Andhra’s batting effort secured a 144-run lead and placed pressure on Karnataka’s top order in the second innings.
Saurabh Kumar picked up three wickets for Andhra during Karnataka’s second-innings recovery, keeping the home side in the contest.
With Karnataka leading by 32 runs and six wickets remaining at the end of Day 3, the final day will be crucial. Nair and Smaran will look to extend the lead, while Andhra will aim to dismiss the remaining batters quickly and pursue a result.
Nair’s unbeaten innings has kept Karnataka’s hopes alive after a difficult start. Whether the visitors can build a sufficiently large lead or the match ends in a draw will depend on the final day’s play.
Sportstar — Karun Nair, Karnataka and Andhra Ranji Trophy report
The Times of India — Karun Nair's unbeaten 81 keeps Karnataka afloat after top-order collapse against Andhra
The Indian Express — Day 3 Ranji Trophy round-up
