Mohali, February 1, 2026: Karnataka scripted a dramatic victory in a high-stakes Ranji Trophy match against Punjab at the PCA IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, chasing down a target of 250 runs with five wickets in hand and 25 balls to spare on the final day.

Led by captain Devdutt Padikkal’s unbeaten century and a solid half-century from Mayank Agarwal, Karnataka successfully chased the target set by Punjab in their second innings. Padikkal remained not out on 120 off 85 balls, smashing 6 boundaries and 5 sixes, including some magnificent shots under pressure. His unbroken stand with Mayank Agarwal laid the foundation, while Shreyas Gopal’s quick 33 in the death overs sealed the win.

Match Summary

• Punjab won the toss and batted first, posting 309 in their first innings.
• Karnataka replied strongly with 316, taking a slender 7-run lead, thanks to half-centuries from KL Rahul and Shreyas Gopal.
• In their second innings, Punjab were bowled out for 256, setting Karnataka a target of 250.
• Karnataka chased it down comfortably despite early setbacks, finishing at 250/5.

Devdutt Padikkal, in his debut as captain, played a match-defining knock and was rightly adjudged Player of the Match for his leadership and unbeaten century.

Karnataka now advance to the Ranji Trophy quarter-finals, keeping their title hopes alive with a strong all-round performance.