J&K Cricket Team Creates History After 67 Years
In a moment that will be remembered for generations, the Jammu & Kashmir cricket team scripted history by reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in 67 years. The side defeated the two-time champions Bengal by six wickets in a gripping semifinal at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani, West Bengal.
Chasing a modest target of 126 runs, J&K displayed remarkable composure and completed the chase in just 34.4 overs, triggering celebrations across the Union Territory.
Match Highlights
After bowling Bengal out for just 99 in their second innings, Jammu & Kashmir approached the run chase with confidence.
- Vanshaj Sharma remained unbeaten on 43 and fittingly sealed the historic win with a massive six over long-on.
- Abdul Samad played a fearless unbeaten knock of 30, shifting momentum firmly in J&K’s favour.
Despite a few anxious moments early in the chase, Samad’s aggressive stroke play ensured there were no late hiccups.
Pace Star Auqib Nabi Powers J&K’s Dominance
The true architect of the victory was pace spearhead Auqib Nabi, who delivered a sensational match-winning performance.
- Claimed nine wickets in the semifinal
- Took a five-wicket haul in the first innings
- Now has 55 wickets this season at an average under 13
Coming fresh from his stunning 12/110 performance in the quarterfinal against Madhya Pradesh, the 29-year-old once again rose to the big occasion, emerging as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
A Long Journey: From Struggles to Glory
Jammu & Kashmir’s journey in the Ranji Trophy has been one of perseverance and belief.
- Debuted in 1959–60 season
- First Ranji win came after 44 years (vs Services, 1982–83)
- Breakthrough quarterfinal appearance in 2013–14
- Famous win over Mumbai in 2015–16 under Parveez Rasool
However, sustained success remained elusive — until now.
Season of Transformation Under New Leadership
This season marked a dramatic turnaround under:
- Coach Ajay Sharma
- Captain Paras Dogra
Despite an opening defeat to Mumbai, the team bounced back strongly with:
- Innings win over Rajasthan
- Crucial victories against Delhi and Hyderabad
- Quarterfinal win over Madhya Pradesh by 56 runs
Confidence and consistency finally clicked for the side.
Semifinal Turning Point: J&K’s All-Round Brilliance
In the semifinal, Jammu & Kashmir posted 302 in the first innings, narrowing Bengal’s lead to just 26 runs.
Key Contributions
- Paras Dogra: gritty 58 off 112 balls
- Abdul Samad: explosive 82 off 85 balls
- Auqib Nabi: valuable 42
- Yudhvir Singh: crucial 33 in a 64-run last-wicket stand
The bowling unit then dismantled Bengal for 99 in just 25.1 overs, effectively sealing the contest.
Samad’s Counterattack Broke Bengal’s Resistance
The defining moment of the chase came when Abdul Samad smashed an 18-run over against Akash Deep. That burst of aggression completely shifted the momentum toward Jammu & Kashmir.
From there, the team cruised confidently to one of the biggest victories in its cricketing history.
Leaders and Dignitaries Applaud Historic Achievement
The landmark win drew praise from across the region.
- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha hailed the team for scripting a golden chapter in J&K’s sporting history.
- Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the players, coaches, and support staff, expressing hope that more cricketers from the region would soon shine at the national level.
- Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather and several legislators also extended their congratulations.
With confidence at an all-time high, Jammu & Kashmir now prepares for its maiden Ranji Trophy final appearance.
Bengal: 328 & 99 (25.1 overs)
Jammu & Kashmir: 302 & 126/4 (34.4 overs)
- Vanshaj Sharma: 43*
- Abdul Samad: 30*
