In a thrilling encounter during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024-25, Shreyas Gopal delivered an outstanding performance. The leg-spinner, recently signed by Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2025, stunned everyone with a hat-trick. His achievements included the dismissals of the Pandya brothers, Hardik and Krunal. Karnataka’s dominance over Baroda was highlighted by Gopal’s remarkable spell.
The Match Setup
The match between Karnataka and Baroda was closely watched. Karnataka set a target of 169 runs, showing promise with their batting. Key contributions came from KL Shrijith, who made 22 runs off just 9 balls, and Abhinav Manohar, who scored an unbeaten 56 off 34 balls. Manohar hit six sixes during his innings. Smaran R also provided solid support with a score of 38 runs.
Baroda’s bowlers, Atit Sheth and Krunal Pandya, kept the run rate in check. Sheth finished with figures of 2 for 26, while Krunal had 2 for 22. Despite their efforts, Karnataka managed to set a respectable target.
Baroda’s Strong Start
Baroda began their chase with enthusiasm. Shashwat Rawat led the charge with a blistering innings. He scored 63 runs off 36 balls and looked formidable at the crease. His performance gave Baroda hope of chasing down the target.
However, Karnataka needed a breakthrough to regain momentum. That is when Shreyas Gopal entered the scene. The pressure mounted on Baroda as they aimed to maintain their steady climb toward the target.
Gopal’s Magical Over
Shreyas Gopal’s introduction to the bowling attack changed the game’s dynamics. Rawat, who had appeared untroubled, was the first to fall victim. He mistimed a delivery, leading to a catch by Manish Pandey. This wicket was crucial for Karnataka. It shifted the momentum, igniting hopes of a comeback.
Gopal’s next target was Hardik Pandya. Hardik, known for his explosive batting, walked to the crease. However, Gopal delivered a perfectly disguised ball. Hardik misread it and was dismissed for a golden duck. The crowd erupted in cheers, marking the beginning of Gopal’s hat-trick.
Not long after, Krunal Pandya came to the wicket. In a shocking turn of events, Gopal struck again. He bowled a perfect leg-before delivery that sent Krunal back to the pavilion without scoring. Two golden ducks in two consecutive balls left the Baroda team reeling.
Turning Point for Karnataka
The dismissal of both Pandya brothers caused shockwaves. It was a rare event to see such prominent players dismissed for ducks, especially back-to-back. Their exits derailed Baroda’s chase significantly. What seemed like a straightforward chase suddenly felt daunting.
Gopal’s hat-trick was more than just a personal achievement; it was crucial for Karnataka. Baroda’s chase, which initially appeared stable, began to falter. Karnataka’s bowlers tightened their grip on the match, creating pressure.
To add to Baroda’s woes, Gopal took another wicket. He dismissed Bhanu Pania, who previously had scored a quick 42 runs off 24 balls. Gopal’s spell proved to be a nightmare for Baroda’s batting lineup.
Baroda’s Ongoing Struggles
At the time of writing, Baroda was at 120 for 5, still needing 50 runs from only seven overs. The situation looked dire for them. The game had shifted dramatically in favor of Karnataka, and their bowlers, led by Gopal, were in complete control.
Gopal’s effort not only showcased his skill but also signaled his potential impact for Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL season. His ability to change the course of a match with key wickets makes him a valuable asset.
