Smaran’s Regal 227 Keeps Karnataka in Command in Ranji Trophy
Smaran’s Regal 227 Keeps Karnataka in Command in Ranji Trophy
Unbeaten 227 by Ravichandran Smaran helps Karnataka declare at 547/8; Chandigarh ends day two at 72/4 as the run spree continues.
Ravichandran Smaran produced a masterclass, finishing on an unbeaten 227 to guide Karnataka to a declaring total of 547 for eight on the second day of their Ranji Trophy encounter against Chandigarh at the KSCA Stadium. His marathon innings, spanning 362 balls and featuring 16 fours and two sixes, anchored the home side as they stretched the advantage late in the day. Smaran’s sixth-wicket stand with Shreyas Gopal, who contributed 62 off 147 balls, powered Karnataka past the 500-mark and set the tone for the innings. The partnership between Smaran and Gopal yielded 141 and laid a solid foundation before Smaran continued the charge, ultimately steering Karnataka to a commanding declaration.
Shreyas Gopal’s 62, including a decisive swivel-pull and a blend of textbook drives, supported Smaran’s relentless march. Shikhar Shetty contributed 59 off 122 balls, adding further depth to the Karnataka innings and helping the side stretch their grip on the fixture. The long vigil paid off for Karnataka as they posted a hefty total and left Chandigarh with a tall ask at stumps.
Chandigarh ended day two at 72 for four, their reply stalling in the face of disciplined bowling from Karnataka. Chandigarh’s innings was further strained by fielding woes, with four dropped catches and three misfields leaking quick boundaries at crucial moments. Off-spinner Mohsin Khan did not miss out on the evening’s momentum, taking key wickets to keep the flow against the visitors in Karnataka’s favour. With the lead now substantial, Karnataka will look to press on tomorrow and attempt to seal the match, while Chandigarh hunts for a possible rebuild to challenge the target ahead.
Cover image source: Ranji Trophy 2025-26 | Smaran’s regal double century puts Karnataka in complete control 🔗
