Photo via Sportstar

Meet Ritesh Bhatkal and Shikhar Shetty, spin duo hoping to be Karnataka’s frontline spinners after Ranji Trophy heroics

Karnataka’s spin bowling unit has found a promising new dynamic with the emergence of Ritesh Bhatkal and Shikhar Shetty, who delivered a masterclass in partnership during the Ranji Trophy. The duo combined to take all ten wickets in Assam’s first innings, restricting the opposition to a meager 135 runs on a dry, turn-friendly pitch.

Their disciplined approach—balancing pace variations with tight line and length—proved decisive, with Shetty emphasizing the importance of maintaining pressure from both ends. At just 21 years old, Shetty earned his spot in the 2025-26 squad after a standout performance in the Dr (Capt.) K.

Thimmappiah Memorial Tournament, where he claimed 20 wickets in three matches. In contrast, Bhatkal, now 33, spent years honing his craft in Karnataka’s lower-division leagues before earning his First-Class debut this season, where he took over 60 wickets.

Despite their differing trajectories, both bowlers share a singular focus: helping Karnataka end its 11-year title drought while keeping their sights set on higher honors, with Bhatkal openly admitting his ambition to represent India in the future.

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