In a significant boost for their title aspirations, Karnataka has welcomed back strike bowler V. Vyshak for the high-stakes Ranji Trophy semifinal against Uttarakhand, scheduled to begin on February 15, 2026.
The 29-year-old pacer, who has been a vital cog in Karnataka’s bowling attack, was sidelined during the quarterfinal stage due to a hamstring injury. His return is timed perfectly as the eight-time champions look to secure their ninth trophy, replacing M. Venkatesh in the 14-man squad.
Karnataka’s Path to the Semifinal
Karnataka arrives in Lucknow full of confidence after a historic performance in the quarterfinals:
- The Giant Killers: They knocked out 42-time champions Mumbai with a thrilling four-wicket victory.
- Rahul’s Masterclass: India star KL Rahul anchored a daunting 325-run chase with a majestic 130 (his 24th First-Class century).
- Young Support: Youngster Smaran Ravichandran provided crucial support with an unbeaten 83 to see the team home at the BKC Ground.
The Semifinal Matchup
Karnataka will face first-time semifinalists Uttarakhand, who secured their spot by crushing Jharkhand by an innings and six runs. Due to stadium standards in Dehradun, the match has been shifted to the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow.
Official Karnataka Squad
| Role | Players |
| Batters | Mayank Agarwal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal (C), Karun Nair, Smaran R |
| Wicketkeepers | Kruthik Krishna, Shrijith KL |
| All-rounders | Shreyas Gopal |
| Bowlers | Vidwath Kaverappa, Vidyadhar Patil, Prasidh Krishna, Mohsin Khan, Shikhar Shetty, V. Vyshak |
