February 28, 2026, will be etched as a historic day in Jammu and Kashmir’s cricketing journey. After nearly seven decades of competing in India’s premier domestic tournament, J&K lifted their first-ever Ranji Trophy, defeating eight-time champions Karnataka at the KSCA Stadium in Hubballi.
From the very first session, J&K asserted themselves. Winning the toss, they chose to bat and built a colossal 584, with stellar contributions from Shubham Pundir (121), Paras Dogra (70), Yawer Hassan (88), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70), and Sahil Lotra (72). Karnataka struggled to keep pace and were bowled out for 293, with pacer Auqib Nabi shining with a five-wicket haul, including the prized wickets of top-order batsmen KL Rahul and Karun Nair. Nabi finished the tournament as the leading wicket-taker with 60 scalps—a rare feat in Ranji history.
In J&K’s second innings, Qamran Iqbal (159 not out) and Lotra (101 not out) steadied the innings, ensuring the team maintained control. When the match ended in a draw, the first-innings lead was enough for J&K to claim the trophy, triggering jubilant celebrations among players, officials, and fans alike.
The victory was a moment of pride beyond the cricket field. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of J&K, attended the final, cheering the team in person. The triumph capped a remarkable 2025–26 season, in which J&K had defeated domestic heavyweights like Madhya Pradesh and Bengal, proving their mettle at every step.
This commendable milestone that will inspire generations of cricketers. Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy victory reflects the teams resilience, dedication, and hope.
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