In a breathtaking display of batting prowess, Karnataka has etched its name into the cricketing record books by pulling off the highest successful run chase in the history of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The Mayank Agarwal-led side hunted down a mammoth target of 413 set by Jharkhand, achieving the feat with five wickets and 15 balls to spare at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground B in Ahmedabad on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
A Chase for the Ages
This monumental effort not only shattered the previous Vijay Hazare Trophy record of 384, set by Andhra against Goa in the 2011-12 season, but also propelled Karnataka into an elite global club. Karnataka joined South Africa to become only the second team in the history of List A cricket to successfully overhaul a target exceeding 400 runs. The world record remains with South Africa, who famously chased down 435 against Australia in Johannesburg back in 2006.
The stage was set by a blistering innings from Jharkhand's skipper, Ishan Kishan. Fresh from leading his state to a maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, Kishan unleashed a devastating assault, hammering a 33-ball century on his way to a whirlwind 125 off just 39 deliveries. Supported by Virat Singh and Kumar Kushagra, Jharkhand posted a formidable 412 for 9 in their 50 overs after being asked to bat first.
Karnataka's Commanding Reply
Faced with a seemingly insurmountable target, Karnataka's openers launched a fearless counter-attack. Captain Mayank Agarwal provided the early fireworks with a rapid 54 from 34 balls, setting the tone for the chase. He forged a devastating 114-run opening partnership in just 11.5 overs with the elegant Devdutt Padikkal, which effectively broke the back of the chase.
Devdutt Padikkal anchored the innings with a magnificent century, scoring 147 runs off 118 deliveries. His composed knock ensured the required run rate was always under control. The middle order then chipped in with valuable contributions, guiding the defending VHT champions to a historic victory and a perfect start to the 2025-26 season.
Where This Chase Stands in History
Karnataka's chase of 413 is now officially the second-highest successful pursuit in all of List A cricket. The full list of record chases highlights the rarity and difficulty of such an achievement:
- South Africa: 438/9 (Target 435) vs Australia, Johannesburg, 12 Mar 2006
- Karnataka: 413/5 (Target 413) vs Jharkhand, Ahmedabad, 24 Dec 2025
- Queensland: 402/3 (Target 399) vs Tasmania, Sydney, 18 Oct 2014
- Karachi: 392/2 (Target 392) vs Sialkot, Sialkot, 28 Mar 2004
- Andhra: 385/6 (Target 384) vs Goa, Bengaluru, 24 Feb 2012
This match will be remembered as a classic example of modern limited-overs batting, where no target is considered safe. It underscores the depth of talent in Indian domestic cricket and sets a thrilling precedent for the remainder of the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament.
