The clash of the titans – Tamil Nadu and Karnataka – in the Ranji Trophy has always been a keen and interesting tussle and this year the action was to unfold at the picturesque IIT-Chemplast ground, which was for the first time hosting a first class match. It was quite a significant game for both players and ground. The contest for supremacy in the South Zone was expected to be keen. Electing to bat on winning the toss, Tamil Nadu put up a healthy total in excess of 450.

The Tamil Nadu medium pacers, encouraged by the bounce the wicket offered, bowled an inspired spell and skittled Karnataka out cheaply and ensured a first innings lead of over 200 runs.

The match was interestingly poised at the close of the third day, but on the final day, rain played spoilsport. Nevertheless, there were exciting moments and creditable performances by individual players. Badrinath’s maiden ton in his debut season, and a professional, well compiled hundred by skipper Robin Singh are worth mentioning. For Karnataka, their workhorse, Dodda Ganesh, was rewarded with five scalps for his hard work. The players were thrilled to play on a superb ground in a verdant atmosphere, the likes of which they have only seen abroad. The sheer beauty of the ground captivated their hearts and they are longing to be back at the venue, of which they cherish fond memories.