![J&K won their first-ever Ranji Trophy title [Source: X]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1772268929987_J&KwinRanjiTrophyfinal(1).jpg?type=hq)
J&K won their first-ever Ranji Trophy title [Source: X]
In a remarkable achievement, the Jammu & Kashmir cricket team scripted history, winning their first-ever Ranji Trophy title. The highly anticipated Ranji Trophy final between Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka concluded in a draw, as the former clinched their maiden title based on a significant first-innings lead.
The fifth day of the Ranji Trophy final witnessed dominance from Jammu & Kashmir, as they didn't let the momentum slip from their hands. They were unbeaten on 342 runs, eventually getting their hands on the coveted trophy for the very first time in 66 years.
Opener Qamran Iqbal and middle-order batter Sahil Lotra emerged as the heroes for J&K, ensuring their side didn't collapse and bag the trophy, courtesy of a whopping first-innings lead of 291 runs.
Jammu & Kashmir Vs Karnataka: As the Ranji Trophy final happened
After winning the toss, J&K captain Paras Dogra elected to bat first on a track firmly covered with live grass. However, despite an early setback in form of Qamran Iqbal, the visitors posted a daunting total of 584 runs in their first innings.
Yawer Hassan Khan and Shubham Pundir steadied the ship with spectacular knocks, while Dogra, Abdul Samad, Kanhaiya Wadhawan and Sahil Lotra notched up crucial half-centuries.
In response, Karnataka had a poor outing with the bat, as Auqib Nabi took a sensational five-wicket haul, restricting them to a sub-par total.
Although Mayank Agarwal stood tall and contributed 160 runs to the tally, the Devdutt Padikkal-led outfit was bundled out for 293, conceding a 291-run lead to their opponents.
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On the other hand, J&K made the most of the batting-friendly conditions in the second innings. Despite losing four wickets in quick succession, the tourists bounced back in style, thanks to a match-winning partnership between Lotra and Qamran Iqbal, both of whom smashed valuable hundreds.
As a result, the Jammu & Kashmir cricket team went on to declare their innings on 342 for four on the final day, securing their first Ranji Trophy title.
From rags to riches: Jammu & Kashmir's inspirational Ranji Trophy redemption
Jammu & Kashmir began their Ranji Trophy journey way back in 1960. However, they were one of the late-bloomers in the history of the competition, taking 99 matches to win their first match.
In fact, the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final was 346th match of the J&K cricket team, but they ended up on the winning side for just the 47th time. This signifies what it means for the entire team, as they rejoice their maiden win in the Ranji Trophy.
The credit for J&K's stellar success undoubtedly goes to their leadership group, spearheaded by the veteran Paras Dogra and head coach Ajay Sharma.
While Sharma was instrumental in preparing the blueprint, Paras Dogra played a pivotal role in converting those plans into action. Added to that, Auqib Nabi became the talk of the town, showcasing remarkable consistency and finishing the Ranji Trophy as the leading wicket-taker.
Nabi bagged 60 wickets in 17 innings, further boosting his chances for a deserving entry into the Indian Test team. On the other hand, reputed IPL star Abdul Samad emerged as J&K's go-to man with the bat, amassing 748 runs, including one hundred and five half-centuries, at a magnificent average of 57.53.
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