Vijay Hazare Trophy 2017-18, Semi-Final 1 Review: Mayank and Karun lead Karnataka to a 9-wicket win

A stupendous all-round display from Karnataka saw the Maharashtra team get hammered in the most obnoxious manner possible at the Feroz Shah Kola, Delhi. Karun Nair and his troops managed to outclass Maharashtra in every aspect and this pretty much reflects on the scoreline. In the first of two semi-finals to be played on this ground, Nair along with Mayank Agarwal produced yet another masterclass and went on to compose a superlative partnership which eventually helped them to book their spot for the final as they won the match win 9 wickets in hand.

On a docile track, the toss fell in Maharashtra’s favour and they were expected to post a gigantic total on the board to put pressure on the Karnataka batters who have been in rampant form right from the start of their effort. However, no batsman really got going as they lost wickets in almost every sixth over.

Ruturaj Gaikwad and Shrikant Mundhe started the proceedings and the team wanted them to stick on the wicket for long and give them a solid start. However, Prasidh produced an absolute ripper of the delivery to beat Gaikwad all ends up and sent him back to the pavilion with just 1 run in his account. The wickets kept tumbling for the Maharashtrians and they slumped to 94 for 4 in 24 overs.

Banking on the quick-fire fifty from the opener Shrikanth Mundhe along with a dazzling knock by middle-order batsman Naushad Shaikh helped them to put up not so challenging total of 160 runs total on board. Karnataka bowlers were absolutely phenomenal on the given day as the batters had no answers whatsoever. Spectacular rendition from almost everyone who came out to the bowl and did exactly what the team needed at that point.

In reply, both the Karnataka openers continued their formidable form and played their shots with a lot comfort. Chasing a low total 160 runs in 50 overs always makes it easier for the team batting second. They have the advantage of taking all the time needed to get their eye in before going for their shots. One will have to say, Mayank Agarwal and Karun Nair were able to do exactly that and crush out every possible run. The first wicket partnership of 155 runs has now put their team just one step away from the coveted title.

Brief Scores

Karnataka v Maharashtra

Maharashtra: 160/10 in 50 overs (Shrikanth Mundhe 50; K Gowtham 3/26)

Karnataka: 164/1 in 30.3 overs (Mayank Agarwal 81; SS Bachhav 1/32)

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