Hubballi, February 28, 2026 : The Jammu and Kashmir cricket team etched their name in history by clinching their maiden Ranji Trophy title after the final against Karnataka cricket team ended in a draw, with J&K securing the championship on the basis of a decisive first-innings lead.
This landmark triumph marks the first-ever Ranji Trophy title for Jammu and Kashmir in their 67-year journey in India’s premier domestic cricket tournament.
Dominance Built on First-Innings Supremacy
J&K had posted a formidable first-innings total of 584, putting Karnataka under immense pressure. In response, Karnataka were bowled out for 293 in 93.3 overs, handing J&K a commanding 291-run lead.
Pacer Auqib Nabi starred with the ball, claiming an impressive five-wicket haul (5/54) to put his side firmly in control of the contest.
Despite having the option to enforce the follow-on, J&K chose to bat again — a strategic decision that effectively batted Karnataka out of the game.
Centuries Seal the Deal
Resuming day five at 186 for four in their second innings, J&K tightened their grip with a commanding batting display.
Qamran Iqbal, who was unbeaten on 94 overnight, went on to score a magnificent 160, while Sahil Lotra crafted a composed 101.
The duo powered J&K to 342/4 in 113 overs, stretching the overall lead to a massive 633 runs before the two captains agreed to shake hands, bringing the match to a close.
At lunch on the final day, J&K were already 285 for four, with the outcome virtually sealed.
A Defining Moment for J&K Cricket
The victory is being hailed as one of the greatest sporting achievements in Jammu and Kashmir’s history. After decades of participation in domestic cricket, the team has finally lifted the coveted Ranji Trophy, inspiring a new generation of cricketers from the region.
Brief Scores:
Jammu & Kashmir: 584 and 342/4 (Qamran Iqbal 160, Sahil Lotra 101)
Karnataka: 293 all out (Auqib Nabi 5/54; Prasidh Krishna 2/42)
With this historic triumph, Jammu and Kashmir have firmly announced their arrival on the grand stage of Indian domestic cricket.
