Ranji Trophy 2024: Dinesh Karthik comes in support of Tamil Nadu skipper Sai Kishore after talks of blunder in semis

Dinesh Karthik has thrown his weight behind Tamil Nadu skipper Sai Kishore, who faced criticism for opting to bat in bowling-friendly conditions during the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Mumbai, which was played at the Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy BKC in Mumbai. The move sparked disappointment from Tamil Nadu's coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, who felt the team lost the match right at the toss itself. Karthik's support underscores the team's unity despite the contentious decision, highlighting the intense dynamics within cricketing strategies.

“This is soo WRONG This is so disappointing from the coach ..instead of backing the captain who has brought the team to the semis after 7 yrs and thinking it's a start for good things to happen, the coach has absolutely thrown his captain and team under the bus,” Karthik wrote on his 'X' handle

Read More: 'We lost the match at 9 o'clock on day one' - Tamil Nadu coach highlights blunder at toss after Ranji semi-final drubbing

Sai Kishore embarked on his maiden leadership journey with the senior Tamil Nadu team during the 2023-24 season, steering them to their first knockout round since 2016-17. The towering left-arm spinner also leads the wicket-taking tally among Elite division outfits, claiming 53 scalps in nine encounters. However, Kishore's decision to bat first in the semi-finals drastically misfired, plunging Tamil Nadu to a dismal 42 for 5 in the initial session. This setback dashed their hopes of advancing to the tournament.

Check out Dinesh Karthik's latest post here:

Tamil Nadu faltered when it mattered most in Ranji Trophy knockouts

Tamil Nadu endured a catastrophic collapse on day one, managing a meagre 146 runs before succumbing to Mumbai's bowling attack. Despite Sai Kishore's commendable five-wicket haul, Tamil Nadu's hopes flickered momentarily. However, Mumbai's lower order, spearheaded by Shardul Thakur's remarkable century and Tanush Kotian's unbeaten 89 at number ten, propelled them to a commanding 233-run lead. Tamil Nadu's second innings faltered at 162, sealing Mumbai's victory by an innings and 70 runs, securing their spot in the 48th Ranji final.

Also Read: Shardul Thakur calls for longer break between Ranji games

Adding to Tamil Nadu's troubles, Thakur's scintillating innings tilted the balance firmly towards Mumbai. Thakur's explosive century, along with pivotal partnerships, propelled Mumbai to a commanding lead, dashing any hopes of a Tamil Nadu comeback. Mumbai's lower-order resilience highlighted the importance of seizing crucial moments in the game, leaving Tamil Nadu grappling with the enormity of their defeat.