Focus on Multi-Format Improvement
R Smaran, a left-handed batter from Bengaluru, aims to enhance his performance across all formats of cricket. His goal for the upcoming season includes breaching the 1000-run mark in the Ranji Trophy. Smaran was the highest run-scorer for Karnataka in the previous season, accumulating 950 runs, which helped his team reach the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in 11 years.
Smaran’s rise in cricket has been notable, particularly after scoring twin centuries in his debut Ranji Trophy season in 2025. He continued his strong form in 2026, demonstrating consistency in domestic cricket. Over the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, he has scored 1534 runs in 26 innings at an average of 73.60, including three double centuries.
The 23-year-old cricketer works with his childhood coach, Syed Zabiulla, to prepare for the demands of the season. Smaran emphasises the importance of optimising the short off-season to add new technical skills and make mindset changes. He believes in adapting quickly between red-ball and white-ball formats, as each has distinct requirements.
Preparation and Goals for the New Season
With the Duleep Trophy scheduled to begin at the BCCI’s CoE in Bengaluru later this month, Smaran is preparing for his second consecutive appearance with the South Zone team. He views the tournament as a crucial platform to maintain his contention for the national team. Smaran highlights the significance of good preparation, especially when playing directly in the semifinals, and notes his familiarity with the ground.
Smaran aims to manage expectations and enjoy the game, focusing on playing for his state and taking pride in his team. He has set a goal to remain at the top of the scoring charts in the Ranji Trophy, acknowledging it as a challenging but achievable task. His ambition is to score even more runs this year, specifically targeting 1000 runs.
His versatility extends to white-ball cricket, where he played a key role in Karnataka’s 2024-25 Vijay Hazare Trophy triumph, ending a five-year wait for a major title. In that tournament, Smaran scored 433 runs in seven innings at an average of 72.16, with two centuries and two fifties. He was also Karnataka’s leading run-scorer in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, with 319 runs in seven innings, averaging 63.80 at a strike rate of 160.
Adapting to Different Formats and IPL Experience
Smaran believes that switching between red-ball and white-ball cricket primarily involves a mindset adjustment rather than a technical one. He practices by constantly alternating formats during training to help his muscle memory adapt. While transitioning from red-ball to white-ball is comparatively easier due to more scoring options, moving back to red-ball requires patience and leaving more deliveries.
His experience in the IPL with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), though not yielding the best individual returns, was a valuable learning opportunity. He played six matches in his first full IPL season. Smaran acknowledges that his T20 game can still improve, particularly in taking on bowlers from the first ball, to meet the demands of high-scoring matches where totals can reach 230-240 runs.
He is also working on expanding his shot selection, including the sweep and reverse sweep, to unsettle spinners, especially on turning tracks. Smaran’s T20 strike rate is currently 155, and he aims to push it to 170 or 180. He also expressed his readiness to take on leadership roles if the opportunity arises, having captained Karnataka at the age-group level and winning the CK Nayudu Trophy.
Smaran’s primary motivation remains guiding Karnataka to a Ranji Trophy victory after falling short in the previous final. He continues to discuss strategies with senior players like Shreyas Gopal in state league matches.
Source: newindianexpress.com
