Star Indian players KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna have joined Karnataka’s squad, giving them a significant boost ahead of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–2026. On December 24 in Ahmedabad, the reigning champions will start their 50-over campaign.
After a protracted hiatus due to international obligations, Rahul, who captained India throughout the ODI leg, is back in domestic cricket. Krishna’s arrival, meanwhile, gives the bowling attack much-needed speed and expertise.
Both of India’s current ODI lineup, KL Rahul and Krishna, recently participated in the home series against South Africa.
Karnataka, the reigning champions, have named a 16-man team, with Mayank Agarwal serving as its captain. The vice captain is Karun Nair, who has had a stellar Ranji Trophy season. It has been difficult to overlook Nair’s red-ball form, and the selectors have rewarded consistency with accountability.
Despite not being included in the main squad, pacers Vidwath Kaverappa and Vidyadhar Patel will travel with the team to Ahmedabad and be available for match action, according to the selection panel, which was presided over by Amit Verma.
Due to their outstanding performances in the U-23 State “A” Trophy, young players Harshil Dharmani and Dhruv Prabhakar have earned their call-ups. Prabhakar struck a 126 against Vidarbha, while Dharmani stole the show with a game-winning 142 against Tamil Nadu. The only dedicated slow bowler in the team is left-arm spinner Shreesha Achar.
Along with Jharkhand, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Tripura, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka has been assigned to Group A. Ahmedabad will host all group-stage games, including the December 24 opening against Jharkhand.
However, because of India’s forthcoming ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11, Rahul and Prasidh are anticipated to depart in the middle of the tournament. They might miss the knockout stages and the latter portion of the group stage if they leave.
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