Malik Sumeed
Srinagar, Feb 28 (KNB): Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket team scripted an unforgettable chapter in Indian domestic cricket history on Saturday, clinching the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever. The Valley side emerged champions of the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy, overcoming eight-time title holders Karnataka in the final at the KSCA Cricket Ground, Hubballi.
After a five-day showdown that ended in a draw, the Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) team secured the prestigious national title on the basis of a commanding first-innings lead, a decisive criterion in Ranji Trophy finals.
J&K posted a massive 584 runs in their first innings, led by significant contributions from their batting lineup, before bowling out Karnataka for 293 establishing a 291-run advantage that eventually proved unassailable.
The final witnessed sterling performances across disciplines. J&K bowlers exerted early pressure to restrict the hosts, while their batsmen provided crucial run support to set up an imposing total.
This landmark victory marks a 67-year wait since the team’s first Ranji Trophy participation and brings the Union Territory its maiden title in the tournament’s long and storied history. The triumph has been lauded across the region, reflecting the team’s sustained rise in domestic cricket over recent seasons.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who attended the final to back the side, along with local fans and officials, celebrated the historic achievement that is expected to have a lasting impact on sporting aspirations across the region.
The team’s success is being hailed as a defining moment for cricket in Jammu & Kashmir, and a potential springboard for future talent to emerge on the national stage.(KNB)
With inputs from PTI/ANI)