Picture Credit: PTI
Jammu & Kashmir achieved a breakthrough in Indian domestic cricket by winning their first Ranji Trophy, overcoming Karnataka in the final at Hubbali.
The contest concluded in a draw, but the substantial first-innings cushion ensured the title belonged to the northern side.
Choosing to bat first, Jammu & Kashmir imposed themselves from the outset. Shubham Pundir crafted a superb unbeaten 117, becoming the first cricketer from the state to record a century in a Ranji Trophy final.
His assured knock carried the team to 284/2 by stumps on the opening day.
Yawer Hassan contributed a fluent 88, while Abdul Samad added an unbeaten half-century, allowing the side to dominate proceedings early.
The second day saw further consolidation as captain Paras Dogra struck a composed fifty. Kanhaiya Wadhawan’s 70 and Sahil Lotra’s unbeaten 57 ensured there was no loss of momentum.
Although Prasidh Krishna claimed five wickets, Karnataka were left chasing a daunting 584 after Jammu & Kashmir completed a formidable first innings.
Bowlers Maintain the Upper Hand
Jammu & Kashmir’s seamers reinforced their advantage on Day 3. Auqib Nabi Dar produced a penetrating spell that dismantled Karnataka’s top order, including the prized wickets of KL Rahul and Karun Nair.
Despite Mayank Agarwal’s resilient 160, Jammu & Kashmir bowled Karnataka out for 293 and secured a commanding 291-run first-innings lead.
In their second outing, Jammu & Kashmir steadied themselves after early setbacks. Qamran Iqbal led the charge with a patient and authoritative 160, while Sahil Lotra completed a memorable performance by registering his maiden first-class century, finishing unbeaten on 101.
Their commanding partnership stretched the lead beyond 600, after which the captain declared at 342/4, formally sealing the outcome.
After more than six decades in the competition, Jammu & Kashmir finally celebrated lifting the Ranji Trophy, marking a transformative chapter for cricket in the region.
Brief Scores: Jammu & Kashmir 584 and 342/4 declared defeated Karnataka 293 on first-innings lead.
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