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Karnataka captain Mayank Agarwal has recovered after a health scare that led to his hospitalisation in Tripura. Agarwal will lead Karnataka in their next Ranji Trophy 2023-24 clash against Tamil Nadu in the Elite Group C match in Chennai starting February 9.
The 32-year-old had consumed a liquid on the team's flight from Tripura to Surat. He complained of a burning sensation in his mouth and was immediately admitted to the ICU in Agartala. He was discharged on January 31 and flew back to Bengaluru but was now allowed to speak for 48 hours due to ulcers and swelling.
In Agarwal's absence, vice-captain Nikin Jose led Karnataka against Railways. In the run chase of 226, Karnataka batters struggled. Veteran batter Manish Pandey rescued Karnataka from 99/6 and shared crucial partnerships with lower-order batters to lead Karnataka home with just one wicket in hand. Pandey remained unbeaten for 67 off 121 balls featuring six fours and a six.
Karnataka are currently placed second on the points table, just below Tamil Nadu who have a better net run rate (NRR). Karnataka have won three, lost one whereas one ended in a draw. They have 21 points so far. They will face the table-toppers Tamil Nadu in the next game.
Agarwal’s form in Ranji Trophy
After just 13 runs in the opening game against Rajasthan followed by two ducks against Punjab, Agarwal regained his form. He scored a century each against Gujarat and Goa in consecutive matches. In the low-scoring clash against Tripura, he scored a half-century in the first innings. Karnataka won the match by 29 runs.
Karnataka have one foot in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 knockout games. After facing Tamil Nadu, Karnataka will host Chandigarh in their last league game. The quarter-finals will begin on February 23.
Doors closed for Agarwal?
Agarwal played his last Test in 2022 against Sri Lanka. He registered scores of 4 and 22 against Sri Lanka. With Yashasvi Jaiswal cementing his spot as an opener, Agarwal is unlikely to make a comeback to the Indian side. He has scored 1,488 runs from 21 Tests at an average of 41.33 including four centuries and six half-centuries.
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