Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Goa’s campaign in the Vijay Merchant Trophy Elite cricket tournament came to a disappointing end after they suffered a comprehensive innings defeat against Karnataka on the second day of their three day match at the RDCA Ground in Raipur. Karnataka registered a dominant innings and 147 run victory, underlining their superiority across all departments.
After being asked to bat first, Goa struggled to build momentum in their opening innings and were dismissed for 160 runs in 55 overs. Karnataka’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure, preventing Goa’s batters from settling at the crease and forcing regular breakthroughs.
In reply, Karnataka produced a commanding batting performance, piling up a massive 434 for 6 before declaring their first innings after 76 overs. The innings was highlighted by a brilliant century from Niranjan Ashok, who scored 130 runs, and another fine hundred by Rohith Reddy, who contributed 104. Valuable support came from Syaamantak Anirudh with 82 and useful contributions from Sukurth J. and Aditya Jha, as Karnataka comfortably established a huge lead.
Faced with an imposing deficit, Goa needed a strong response in their second innings to avoid an innings defeat. However, the batting unit once again failed to deliver under pressure. Karnataka’s bowlers struck at regular intervals to bowl Goa out for 127 runs, ending the innings in just 30 overs. Shaunak Teli remained unbeaten on 23, while Adeep Miskin top scored with 27. Contributions from Vinit Kamat and Mohammad Uzair proved insufficient to alter the course of the match.
Suvik Gill led Karnataka’s bowling attack in the second innings with an impressive six wicket haul, well supported by Sukurth J. and Atharv Deshpande, as Goa’s resistance quickly crumbled.
The innings defeat sealed a one sided contest and marked a difficult end to Goa’s journey in the tournament. The team finished their Group D campaign without a single win, suffering defeats in all five of their matches. The performance highlighted areas that will need significant improvement as Goa looks ahead to future domestic competitions and rebuilding efforts.
