Karnataka Strengthens Squad with Nikin Jose for Ranji Trophy Clash

Nikin Jose replaces the injured Ravichandran Smaran in Karnataka's squad for their Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh. The team faces a setback with Smaran's absence, but hopes to maintain their lead in Group B. Samit Dravid also enters the CK Nayudu Trophy lineup for Karnataka.

Karnataka's hopes for the forthcoming Ranji Trophy encounter against Madhya Pradesh have received a boost with the return of top-order batter Nikin Jose, replacing the injured Ravichandran Smaran. Smaran suffered a shoulder injury before the Vijay Hazare Trophy semifinal against Vidarbha, posing a significant challenge to Karnataka's lineup as Smaran had been performing exceptionally well this season.

With Smaran sidelined, the team looks towards seasoned players including captain Mayank Agarwal and India batter Devdutt Padikkal to provide stability and strength to the batting order. Adding to their ranks, M Venkatesh replaces pacer Vysakh Vijayakumar, who is also out due to a concussion sustained mid-way through their previous match.

In another development, the younger Dravid, Samit, son of cricket legend Rahul Dravid, features in Karnataka's Col CK Nayudu Trophy campaign. The team remains at the top of Group B with 21 points, leading contenders Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh as they prepare for their upcoming matches at Alur.

(With inputs from agencies.)