Ranji Trophy: KL Rahul century, Karnataka beats Mumbai to enter semi-finals

Ranji Trophy: In a high-stakes encounter today, February 9, 2026, Karnataka pulled off a historic chase to defeat 42-time champions Mumbai and secure a spot in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 semi-finals.

The match at the MCA-BKC Ground in Mumbai lived up to its heavyweight billing, ending with Karnataka winning by 4 wickets. Karnataka chased down the target of 326 runs set by Mumbai for the loss of 6 wickets in the second session of the fourth day’s play.

Veteran batsman KL Rahul played a key role in Karnataka’s victory with an innings of 130 runs. Rahul was supported by R. Smaran, who also scored an unbeaten 83 runs to take the team to the brink of victory.

Chasing a challenging target of 325 runs on a Day 4 pitch, Karnataka relied on their senior pros to navigate the pressure. The veteran batter KL Rahul was the architect of the win, scoring a sublime 130 runs. His 24th First-Class century proved why he remains one of the most reliable anchors in the domestic circuit.

Youngster R. Smaran played a vital role, scoring an unbeaten 81. He stitched together a massive 147-run partnership with Rahul that effectively took the game away from Mumbai. Despite a nervous period where Mumbai’s bowlers picked up quick wickets toward the end, Vidyadhar Patil (31) joined Smaran to steer the team home in the 74th over.

With this victory, Karnataka has set up a semi-final clash against Uttarakhand, who secured their spot by defeating Jharkhand.

Quick Summary of the Scores:

Mumbai: 120 & 377

Karnataka: 173 & 325/6

Result: Karnataka won by 4 wickets.

Player of the Match: KL Rahul

The semi-finals are scheduled to begin on February 15, 2026.

Also Read: Pakistan sets conditions before ICC to reconsider T20 World Cup boycott