Rising Star in Karnataka's Cricket Scene
The Ranji Trophy, India's premier first-class cricket competition, has witnessed the steady ascent of Kruthik Krishna, a wicketkeeper-batsman from Karnataka. His journey, marked by selection for the state squad and notable performances in crucial matches, highlights a developing talent within the domestic circuit. This report details his progression, drawing from available information about his selection, his role in the team, and his personal cricketing inspirations.

Timeline of Selection and Matches
Kruthik Krishna's inclusion in the Karnataka Ranji Trophy squad was a significant step.
October 2025: He was selected for Karnataka's 15-man squad for the Ranji Trophy opener against Saurashtra. At this point, he was recognized as a wicketkeeper-batter and was picked alongside left-arm spinner Shikhar Shetty.
October 2025: Kruthik Krishna, representing Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) Mysuru Zone, was confirmed for the State Ranji Team's campaign. He had long been considered a talented cricketer within the state.
October 2025: Further confirmation of his selection appeared, noting his impending action against Saurashtra.
2025-26 Ranji Trophy Season: Kruthik has been an active participant. He was part of the Karnataka squad that secured a quarterfinal berth, notably defeating Punjab.
Ranji Trophy Quarterfinals: In the quarterfinal match against Mumbai, Kruthik was on the field. He was dismissed for 9 runs off 9 balls in Karnataka's second innings. In the first innings, he was out for 36 runs.
Kruthik Krishna's Playing Style and Influences
Kruthik Krishna's approach to wicketkeeping and batting appears to be shaped by his admiration for established players.
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Wicketkeeping Prowess: While details of his specific dismissals are scarce, his presence as the designated wicketkeeper in key matches suggests a level of trust from the team management. He has been noted as a wicketkeeper-batsman.
Batting Contributions: In the first innings of the quarterfinal against Mumbai, he scored 36 runs. In the second innings, he was dismissed for 9 runs. He also contributed to Karnataka's performance against Punjab, a match that led to their quarterfinal qualification.
Inspirations: Kruthik has openly spoken about his cricketing idols.
He initially looked up to M.S. Dhoni.
As he grew, Wriddhiman Saha became a significant influence. He admires Saha's ability to "create chances in any conditions." Kruthik met Saha at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) about seven years prior to the report.
Background: Hailing from Mandya in southern Karnataka, Kruthik began his cricketing journey there before moving to Bengaluru.
Karnataka's Ranji Trophy Campaign 2025-26
Kruthik Krishna is a part of the Karnataka team's efforts in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season.
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Quarterfinal Against Mumbai: Karnataka faced Mumbai in a quarterfinal match.
In the first innings, Mumbai was bowled out for 120 runs.
Karnataka's first innings score was 173 runs, giving them a lead of 53 runs. Kruthik contributed 36 runs to this total.
Mumbai's second innings saw them score 189/2, setting a target for Karnataka.
In their second innings chase, Karnataka was at 22/1 at one point, with Kruthik dismissed for 9 runs.
Qualification for Quarterfinals: Karnataka reached the quarterfinals by defeating Punjab. Devdutt Padikkal’s century was pivotal in this victory.
Team Dynamics:
Mayank Agarwal has been a key player, scoring 92 runs in the first innings against Mumbai.
K.L. Rahul also featured, scoring 28 runs in the first innings against Mumbai.
Devdutt Padikkal captained the side during their win against Punjab and was part of the quarterfinal squad.
Karun Nair, Karnataka's highest run-scorer that season, returned to the side for the quarterfinal after an injury.
Expert Insights on Kruthik Krishna
Kruthik Krishna has been recognized as a promising talent within Karnataka's cricketing circles for some time. His selection for the Ranji Trophy squad is seen as a reward for his consistent performance. His background in swimming at a young age, as noted by Star of Mysore, suggests a diverse athletic foundation. His journey, from starting in Mandya to representing Karnataka at the Ranji level, indicates a dedication to the sport.
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Sources:
The Hindu: "Ranji Trophy | Karnataka ’keeper Kruthik proves his mettle" (Published: 21 minutes ago)
Sportstar: "Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Quarterfinals Highlight, Day 3: Uttarakhand qualifies for semifinals; MP, Karnataka face tough chases" (Published: 2 days ago)
Star of Mysore: "From Pool to the Pitch" (Published: October 13, 2025)
The Hindu: "Ranji Trophy | Rahul’s resolute innings gives Karnataka a fighting chance against Mumbai" (Published: 1 hour ago)
Outlook India: "Ranji Trophy Round 7, Day 3 Highlights: Gnaneshwar Brings Up Maiden Double; Bengal Win" (Published: 1 week ago)
Outlook India: "Ranji Trophy QFs Day 1 Highlights: Karnataka Restrict Mumbai To 120; Jharkhand Bowled Out For 235" (Published: 2 days ago)
The Hindu: "RANJI TROPHY | Karnataka takes the upper hand after batting debacle by Mumbai" (Published: 2 days ago)
Free Press Journal: "Karnataka Dominate Day 1 As Mumbai Fold Cheap In Ranji Quarterfinal" (Published: 2 days ago)
Star of Mysore: "Kruthik Krishna selected for Ranji Trophy" (Published: October 8, 2025)
URL: https://starofmysore.com/kruthik-krishna-selected-for-ranji-trophy/
The Hindu: "Ranji Trophy | Kruthik, Shikhar picked in Karnataka squad for opener" (Published: October 6, 2025)
Sportstar: "Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Karnataka sets up quarterfinal date with Mumbai after dramatic win over Punjab" (Published: 1 week ago)
Outlook India: "Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Quarterfinals: Auqib Nabi Fires J&K To Lead; Uttarakhand, Mumbai Ahead" (Published: 1 day ago)
Free Press Journal: "Mumbai Stages Stunning Comeback Against Karnataka To Take Commanding 136-Run Lead In Ranji Trophy Quarterfinal" (Published: 20 hours ago)
Sportstar: "Karnataka squad for Ranji Trophy quarterfinal — Devdutt Padikkal to continue as captain, Karun Nair returns" (Published: 5 days ago)
The Hindu: "Ranji Trophy | Avasthi and Deshpande help Mumbai wrest back control over Karnataka" (Published: 1 day ago)
Sportstar: "Ranji Trophy 2025-26, Quarterfinals: Pacers help Mumbai gain upper hand against Karnataka on Day 2" (Published: 1 day ago)
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