Karnataka surge to 802-run lead in Ranji

Karnataka moved within touching distance of victory on February 18, 2026, stretching their overall lead to a massive 802 runs by stumps on Day 3 of their Ranji Trophy fixture. Dominant with both bat and ball, the hosts turned the match into a one-sided contest at their home ground.
After piling up a commanding first-innings total, Karnataka’s bowlers skittled the opposition for a modest reply, building a huge advantage. The batters then pressed harder in the second innings, scoring briskly to push the lead beyond 800 and leave their rivals staring at defeat.
“We knew one big session could break the game open,” skipper Mayank Agarwal said. “The boys showed intent and discipline.”
The opposing captain conceded the scale of the challenge. “Chasing this will take something extraordinary,” he admitted.
With a day remaining, Karnataka need only a clinical finish to convert dominance into a resounding win and strengthen their title push.