Photo via Wisden

68, 135, 126: Rising Indian star rescues star-studded state side from 22-4 to continue golden run

Stepping up as temporary leader for the opening Ranji fixture in the absence of Devdutt Padikkal, R Smaran delivered a stellar recovery knock after his side plummeted to 22-4. With senior internationals like KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, and Karun Nair dismissed for single digits within eight overs, the 23-year-old batsman anchored the innings alongside Krishnan Shrijith during a vital 111-run stand.

Smaran ultimately reached 126 from 186 deliveries, lifting the total to 274 before Karnataka's bowling unit restricted Andhra to 116 for five. This latest rescue act follows his recent standout performances for Rest of India, where he notched scores of 68 and 135 to secure a 167-run victory and earn a maiden India A selection for the upcoming tour of New Zealand starting October 26 in Lincoln.

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