KL Rahul Joins Karnataka Ranji Squad; Devdutt Padikkal to Lead Against Punjab

• Star batter KL Rahul has been named in Karnataka's squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Punjab in Mohali, starting January 29.
• Devdutt Padikkal will lead the Karnataka team, which also includes speedster Prasidh Krishna.
• Experienced batter Karun Nair will miss the match due to injury, a blow to Karnataka's middle-order.
• Rahul's last red-ball appearance was against South Africa in November last year.
• Karnataka aims for a crucial win after a significant defeat to Madhya Pradesh and mixed results earlier in the season.

Why It Matters: KL Rahul's inclusion boosts Karnataka's Ranji Trophy hopes, with Devdutt Padikkal captaining the side.