Cricket

Karnataka's batting lineup showcased resilience and determination on the opening day of the Col. C.K. Nayudu (U-23) Trophy final against Uttar Pradesh, amassing a formidable 325 runs for the loss of five wickets at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.Middle-order batsman Yashovardhan Parantap emerged as the star performer, anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 84 runs off 111 deliveries, studded with 12 boundaries. His crucial partnership with Kruthik Krishna (58 not out off 103 balls, 5 fours) for the sixth wicket, worth an unbroken 131 runs, propelled Karnataka to a commanding position.The home team's innings got off to a solid start as openers MacNeil H. Noronha (68 off 135 balls, 5 fours, 2 sixes) and Prakar Chaturvedi (33 off 69 balls, 4 fours) put on a 68-run stand. Noronha continued his impressive form, adding 73 runs with K.V. Aneesh (43 off 76 balls, 3 fours).However, a middle-order collapse saw Karnataka lose three wickets for just 21 runs, including that of captain R. Smaran. The hosts were in danger of losing momentum, but Parantap and Krishna stepped up to the plate.Parantap, known for his solid technique and ability to play long innings, held the innings together with his composed batting. He found an able ally in Krishna, who played a patient and supportive role. The duo rotated the strike effectively, punished loose deliveries, and gradually rebuilt Karnataka's innings.As the day drew to a close, Karnataka had established a strong foundation for the remainder of the match. With Parantap and Krishna still at the crease and the lower order yet to come, the home team will be confident of posting a challenging total.