Jammu and Kashmir have scripted history by storming into their maiden Ranji Trophy final, defeating Bengal in a dramatic semifinal. Once considered outsiders, the team’s transformation into genuine title contenders reflects resilience, teamwork, and a newfound belief that has electrified Indian domestic cricket.
For decades, Jammu and Kashmir’s cricketing journey in the Ranji Trophy was marked by struggles, sporadic flashes of talent, and limited recognition. That narrative changed dramatically this season as the team carved its way into the final for the first time in its 67-year history. Their semifinal victory over Bengal was not just a win—it was a statement.
Key Highlights
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Jammu and Kashmir defeated Bengal by six wickets in the semifinal, chasing down 126 runs on Day 4 with composure despite early setbacks
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The pace duo of Auqib Nabi and Sunil Kumar spearheaded the triumph, dismantling Bengal’s batting lineup in the second innings and setting up the historic chase
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Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hailed the achievement as the collective success of players and support staff, emphasizing its significance for the region’s cricketing aspirations
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BCCI President Mithun Manhas, himself a former J&K cricketer, congratulated the team, noting the transformation from perennial underdogs to serious contenders
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The final pits Jammu and Kashmir against Karnataka, eight-time champions, in what promises to be a clash of grit versus pedigree at the KSCS Hubli Cricket Ground
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This journey is more than sport—it symbolizes resilience against odds, a collective dream realized, and a new chapter in Indian domestic cricket where Jammu and Kashmir are no longer outsiders but challengers for the crown
The Ranji Trophy final begins on February 24, and for Jammu and Kashmir, it is not just about a title—it is about rewriting history and inspiring future generations of cricketers from the region.
Sources: Kashmir Reader, Times of India, Firstpost, India Today