Hubballi, February 28 Jammu and Kashmir achieved a remarkable feat in Indian domestic cricket, claiming their maiden Ranji Trophy title by defeating traditional powerhouse Karnataka here on Saturday. This victory marked a glorious season for the team, where they successfully challenged both favorites and emerging teams with equal skill and confidence.
The facts speak for themselves: Jammu and Kashmir held Karnataka to a draw, securing a 291-run lead in the first innings, which they extended to 633 runs after scoring 342/4 in their second innings on the final day.
Key contributions came from opener Qamran Iqbal, who scored 160 not out, and Sahil Lotra, who scored his maiden first-class century (101 not out).
While the numbers were impressive, the day also celebrated a story of determination and a dream that had taken over six decades to realize.
Jammu and Kashmir made their debut in India's premier domestic competition 67 years ago.
In previous seasons, J&K had reached the quarterfinals in the 2013-14, 2019-20, and 2024-25 seasons, but faced setbacks and internal challenges.
However, over the last five days at the KSCA Stadium, they convincingly outperformed a team filled with Indian stars.
The fact that Karnataka failed to take a single wicket on the fifth day, despite Jammu and Kashmir resuming at 186/4, highlighted the dominance of the visiting team in the final.
This victory was a team effort, with each player contributing significantly.
Pacer Auqib Nabi was a standout performer, taking five wickets for the seventh time this season.
Lotra scored a century, along with Paras Dogra (who became the second batsman to reach 10,000 Ranji Trophy runs), Yawer Hassan, Abdul Samad, and Kanhaiya Wadhawan, each scoring a half-century.
These players may not be household names, even within their own state, but their collective effort across 10 Ranji matches was truly remarkable.
After a quiet start to the season in Srinagar following a defeat to Mumbai, Jammu and Kashmir's journey to the title clash unfolded like a rising wave.
The semifinal against Bengal at Kalyani was a particularly significant match.
Unlike the final against Karnataka, where Bengal initially took the lead, Jammu and Kashmir responded strongly.
Nabi played a crucial role, bowling a masterful spell that led to Bengal's dismissal for 88 in the second innings. This victory likely instilled confidence in the Jammu and Kashmir players.
They embraced this opportunity with enthusiasm.
Shubham Pundir scored a century, setting the foundation for Jammu and Kashmir's massive first innings total of 584, and the team maintained their dominance.
Karnataka had also shown remarkable consistency throughout the season, and a ninth Ranji Trophy title seemed within their reach.
However, they underestimated the potential of Jammu and Kashmir, who outplayed them through tactical superiority and game awareness.
Karnataka will reflect on the mistakes that led to their defeat, and the sight of KL Rahul bowling a few overs likely highlighted the team's disappointment.
Discussions and adjustments will be made, and some changes may be implemented.
However, the victory of Jammu and Kashmir will have a positive impact on the socio-economic and political landscape of the region.
This victory could inspire a new generation of youngsters to take up cricket and sports in general.
Perhaps, there will be an infrastructure upgrade in the area, as Auqib Nabi had hoped during a recent conversation with
