Smaran scores century on Karnataka captaincy debut
R. Smaran scored a century on Karnataka captaincy debut in Ranji Trophy opener against Andhra.
R. Smaran scored a century on his Ranji Trophy captaincy debut as Karnataka reached 22 for four before recovering against Andhra at ACA Cricket Ground, Mulapadu on Sunday. The 23-year-old left-hander batted for nearly five-and-a-half hours and added a fifth-wicket stand with Shrijith after the visitors lost their first four wickets for 22 runs.
Smaran was appointed Karnataka captain after Devdutt Padikkal's absence. He had earlier scored a match-winning innings for Rest of India in the Irani Cup before being selected for the India-A tour of New Zealand. Karnataka coach Vinay Kumar, who led the side to consecutive Ranji Trophy titles in 2014 and 2015, provides the team with inspiration, Smaran said.
The southpaw said he was staying in the present and not keeping expectations about playing at any particular level. Karnataka came close to winning the Ranji Trophy last season but finished second, and Smaran said the focus remains on ending the drought.
CricHubb Take
Smaran's selection for India-A follows immediately after his century, which means the national selectors now have a ready-made middle-order option with proven temperament under pressure.