Hubballi (Karnataka), February 28, 2026 : In a historic sporting milestone, the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title, prompting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to announce a ₹2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff.
Describing the victory as a defining chapter in J&K’s cricketing journey, the Chief Minister said the triumph has sparked celebrations across the Union Territory and inspired a new generation of aspiring sportspersons. He also declared that members of the title-winning squad would be eligible for government appointments under the newly notified policy for outstanding athletes.
Dominance Against Eight-Time Champions
Facing eight-time champions Karnataka cricket team on their home turf at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubballi, J&K displayed remarkable grit and composure. The team secured the trophy on the strength of a commanding 291-run first-innings lead and tightened their grip by posting 342/4 in the second innings, stretching the overall advantage to 633 runs by the end of the fifth and final day.
Opener Qamran Iqbal led from the front with an unbeaten 160 — his second first-class century — while Sahil Lotra struck a fluent maiden hundred (101 not out), ensuring J&K remained firmly in control.
With the ball, pacer Auqib Nabi once again proved decisive, claiming his seventh five-wicket haul of the season and underlining his consistency throughout the campaign.
CM Witnesses Historic Moment
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was present at the stadium to witness the historic occasion, personally congratulated the players after the match. He applauded Iqbal and Lotra for their match-defining innings and commended Auqib Nabi for his disciplined, match-winning spells.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, and members of the JKCA accompanied the Chief Minister.
A 67-Year Wait Ends
Jammu and Kashmir made their debut in India’s premier domestic cricket competition 67 years ago. Despite notable performances and quarterfinal appearances in previous seasons, the coveted title had remained elusive — until now.
The 2026 triumph not only ends a decades-long wait but also firmly establishes J&K as a powerhouse in Indian domestic cricket.
