The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final between Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka drew to a close, crowning J&K champions on a commanding first-innings lead. This breakthrough victory marks their debut title after decades of near misses, igniting celebrations across the region.
JKCA chief Anil Gupta, overcome with emotion, rang up Dr. Jitendra Singh in Thiruvananthapuram. ‘Doctor Sahab, hum jeet gaye,’ he shared joyfully, capturing the euphoria of shattering a 67-year jinx.
Prime Minister Modi lauded the feat on X: ‘Congratulations to J&K on their historic Ranji Trophy triumph. It embodies patience, discipline, and passion, signaling burgeoning talent and sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir. May it inspire countless young dreamers.’
On the field, J&K’s batsmen fired on all cylinders first up, amassing 584. Shubham Pundir’s 121, Yawar Hassan’s 88, and Paras Dogra’s 70 set a massive total. Karnataka folded for 293, Mayank Agarwal’s 160 insufficient against Auqib Nabi Dar’s lethal 5/?. The 291-run lead was unassailable.
Second innings resilience shone through Kamar Iqbal’s unbeaten 160 off 311 deliveries and Sahil Lotra’s 101 not out. This championship run redefines J&K cricket, proving their mettle and setting the stage for national aspirations.