BCCI Secretary Devjit Saikia is rallying Team India behind the improbable Ranji Trophy heroics of Jammu & Kashmir ahead of their pivotal Super-8 clash with West Indies in T20 World Cup 2026. On Sunday at Kolkata’s iconic Eden Gardens, Suryakumar Yadav’s side faces a must-win battle against the two-time world champions to secure semifinal progression.
J&K’s Saturday masterclass in Hubli—defeating Karnataka via a hefty first-innings lead—marked their first-ever Ranji title, stunning the eight-time titlists on home soil. Saikia views this as a beacon for India in their high-pressure encounter.
In an interview, he stated, ‘What J&K achieved against a dominant Karnataka proves cricket’s unpredictability. Sunday’s game in Kolkata is our semi-final gateway. Our players are primed for peak performance, ensuring national pride.’
Building confidence, India thrashed Zimbabwe by 72 runs midweek. Openers Abhishek Sharma (55 off 30) and Tilak Varma (44 off 16) set the tone, while Hardik Pandya’s 50* off 23 propelled them to 256/4—the highest T20 WC score by India. Zimbabwe’s chase ended at 184/6.
After a shaky Super-8 start with a 76-run loss to South Africa, this resurgence positions India favorably. Drawing from J&K’s triumph, the team is poised to deliver a statement win over West Indies.