Bengaluru, Jan 12 (UNI) Devdutt Padikkal produced a composed and authoritative unbeaten knock to headline Karnataka’s 55-run victory over Mumbai via the VJD Method in a rain-affected first quarterfinal of the Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite 2025-26 at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1 here on Monday.
Padikkal was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 81 off 95 balls, an innings that ensured Karnataka stayed well ahead of the VJD par score before rain brought an early end to the contest. His knock proved decisive in a high-pressure knockout game, effectively sealing Karnataka’s passage forward.
Earlier, Karnataka’s disciplined bowling effort restricted Mumbai to 254 for 8 after the hosts won the toss and elected to bowl. Mumbai struggled for momentum through the early and middle overs, with wickets falling at regular intervals. Shams Mulani stood out for Mumbai with a resolute 86 off 91 balls, holding the innings together after early setbacks and guiding his side to a competitive total.
For Karnataka, Vidyadhar Patil was the most successful bowler with figures of 3 for 42, while Abhilash Shetty and Vidhwath Kaverappa picked up two wickets each. Vijaykumar Vyshak also chipped in with a wicket, ensuring Mumbai were kept in check despite Mulani’s resistance.
In reply, Karnataka suffered an early blow when captain Mayank Agarwal was dismissed for 12, leaving the score at 44 for 1. Padikkal then took control of the chase, displaying patience, balance and sharp game awareness. He rotated the strike effectively, found the boundaries when needed and ensured the required rate never posed a challenge.
Padikkal forged a decisive, unbroken 143-run partnership for the second wicket with Karun Nair, who provided solid support with an unbeaten 74 off 80 deliveries. Together, the pair neutralised Mumbai’s bowling attack and steadily took Karnataka past the VJD par score.
At 187 for 1 in 33 overs, Karnataka were firmly in command when rain interrupted play. With no further play possible, Karnataka were declared winners by 55 runs under the VJD Method.
Devdutt Padikkal’s innings stood out as the defining performance of the match, underlining his ability to deliver under pressure and anchoring Karnataka’s convincing victory in the rain-curtailed quarterfinal.
Scores:
Mumbai 254 for 8 in 50 overs
Karnataka 187 for 1 in 33 overs
Result: Karnataka won by 55 runs (VJD Method) due to rain
Player of the Match: Devdutt Padikkal
