Karnataka’s Ranji Trophy campaign faces a setback as ace pacer V. Vyshak is ruled out of the upcoming match against Bengal due to his involvement with the India T20I side. This leaves the team with a relatively inexperienced fast bowling unit, as Prasidh Krishna is also unavailable.
Vyshak’s absence will be a significant blow to Karnataka’s bowling attack. The 25-year-old has been a key performer for the team in recent seasons, taking 35 wickets in 10 matches. His pace and swing have been instrumental in Karnataka’s success.
In Vyshak’s absence, V. Koushik will lead the bowling attack. The 23-year-old has 19 First Class appearances to his name and will be looking to make a mark in this crucial match. Vidyadhar Patil and Abhilash Shetty are likely to partner Koushik.
Shreyas Gopal, who took an eight-wicket match-haul in the previous game against Bihar, will handle the bulk of the spin duties. The 29-year-old is a seasoned campaigner and will be expected to provide control and wickets.
Bengal, too, will have to deal with a list of absentees. Veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami is not yet fit, while opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, wicketkeeper-batter Abhishek Porel, and pacer Mukesh Kumar are with the India-A squad.
Wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha, set to retire at the end of this domestic season, will be keen to make a mark. The 38-year-old has been a stalwart of Indian cricket and will be looking to end his career on a high.
Bengal missed out on valuable points when its match against Bihar was abandoned without a ball being bowled. The visitor will look to compensate, but this will not be easy against an even foe in Karnataka.
