KL Rahul, Prasidh Krishna bolster Karnataka squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy defense

Defending champions Karnataka have officially named their squad for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, signaling their intent to secure a record-extending sixth title. As one of the most successful sides in the history of India’s premier domestic one-day tournament, the state team enters the 2025-26 season with a powerful combination of seasoned international experience and emerging young talent. After clinching a dominant victory in the previous edition, the squad will be looking to maintain their white-ball supremacy as they prepare to kick off their campaign in Ahmedabad.

KL Rahul headlines Karnataka squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy

The 16-member squad feature the return of star India internationals KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna. The inclusion of Rahul is a significant boost for the state side. Rahul, who has not featured in the Vijay Hazare Trophy since 2019, brings a wealth of experience and a formidable List A record for Karnataka, averaging nearly 45 in the tournament. He is expected to be available for key fixtures in early January before joining the national squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Similarly Prasidh will lead the bowling attack as his ability to generate high pace and bounce makes him a lethal asset in the 50-over format. His presence, alongside the reliable V. Vyshak and Abhilash Shetty, gives Karnataka one of the most balanced pace batteries in the competition.

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Mayank Agarwal to lead the strong unit

The squad remains anchored by captain Mayank Agarwal, who was instrumental in Karnataka’s title victory last season, finishing as one of the tournament’s top run-getters. The middle order looks equally robust with the presence of Devdutt Padikkal, Karun Nair, and the hard-hitting Abhinav Manohar.

The selection committee has also rewarded domestic consistency, handing call-ups to youngsters Harshil Dharmani and Dhruv Prabhakar following their impressive performances in the U-23 State ‘A’ Trophy. Shreesha Achar will lead the spin department as the primary specialist slow bowler, supported by the all-round capabilities of Shreyas Gopal.

Placed in Group A, Karnataka will begin their campaign on December 24 in Ahmedabad. They face a challenging group that includes prominent sides like Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

Karnataka squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy: Mayank Agarwal (c), Karun Nair (vc), Devdutt Padikkal, KL Rahul, Prasidh Krishna, R. Smaran, KL Shrijith, Abhinav Manohar, Shreyas Gopal, V. Vyshak, Manvanth Kumar, Shreesha Achar, Abhilash Shetty, B.R. Sharath, Harshil Dharmani, Dhruv Prabhakar.

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