The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 quarterfinals delivered high-quality domestic cricket as Karnataka and Saurashtra booked their places in the semifinals with impressive victories over Mumbai and Uttar Pradesh respectively. The results underlined the depth and competitiveness of India’s domestic one-day structure, with both winning sides showcasing balance, discipline, and big-match temperament.
Karnataka’s win over Mumbai carried added significance given the history and pedigree of their opponents. Mumbai entered the knockout clash with confidence and experience, but Karnataka produced a composed all-round performance to seize control at key moments. Their bowlers laid the foundation early, sticking to tight lines and lengths that restricted Mumbai’s scoring options. Rather than chasing wickets recklessly, Karnataka focused on building pressure, forcing mistakes through sustained discipline.
Mumbai struggled to generate momentum, particularly in the middle overs, as Karnataka’s bowling attack rotated intelligently and cut off boundaries. Wickets at regular intervals prevented any late surge, leaving Mumbai with a total that was competitive on paper but manageable given conditions. Karnataka’s fielding further amplified their dominance, with sharp stops and safe catching ensuring there were no easy runs on offer.
In reply, Karnataka’s batting reflected clarity and patience. The top order negotiated the new ball sensibly, avoiding early damage while keeping the scoreboard moving. Once the platform was set, the middle order took control, rotating strike efficiently and punishing loose deliveries. There was no panic even when wickets fell, a sign of a side comfortable with its game plan. The chase was completed with authority, sealing a deserved semifinal berth.
Saurashtra’s quarterfinal victory over Uttar Pradesh followed a similar script of control and execution. Uttar Pradesh, buoyed by strong performances earlier in the tournament, looked to assert themselves early but were met with a disciplined Saurashtra bowling unit. Known for their ability to punch above their weight in domestic cricket, Saurashtra once again relied on structure and teamwork rather than individual brilliance alone.
UP’s innings never fully took off as Saurashtra’s bowlers maintained pressure through consistent dot balls and smart variations. Partnerships were broken before they could become threatening, and despite flashes of resistance, Uttar Pradesh were kept to a total that left them needing something special with the ball.
Saurashtra’s response was calm and methodical. Their batters assessed conditions quickly, identifying which bowlers to target and when to consolidate. The chase was built around partnerships rather than quick bursts, ensuring the required rate never climbed out of control. Even under moments of pressure, Saurashtra’s batters showed composure, reflecting the side’s growing reputation as a dependable knockout team.
These quarterfinal results highlight why Karnataka and Saurashtra remain among the most respected units in India’s domestic circuit. Karnataka’s blend of technical batting and disciplined bowling continues to make them a formidable force, while Saurashtra’s collective mindset and tactical sharpness allow them to consistently challenge more fancied opponents.
As the tournament moves into the semifinal stage, both teams carry momentum and belief. For Karnataka, the challenge will be sustaining their intensity against equally motivated opposition. For Saurashtra, it will be about maintaining their trademark consistency under increasing pressure.
With two heavyweight performances in the quarterfinals, Karnataka and Saurashtra have sent a clear message: they are not just semifinalists by chance, but genuine contenders for the Vijay Hazare Trophy title this season.
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