In a landmark moment for Indian domestic cricket, Jammu and Kashmir created history by winning the Ranji Trophy for the very first time. In the final, Jammu and Kashmir delivered a dominant performance to outclass Karnataka, ending a 67-year wait for the coveted title.

Jammu and Kashmir made their Ranji Trophy debut in the 1959–60 season. Although the team registered its first-ever match victory against the Army in 1982–83, the championship had remained elusive—until now.

Match Decided in the First Innings

The final turned one-sided right from the start. Jammu and Kashmir piled up a massive 584 runs in their first innings, putting Karnataka under immense pressure. In response, Karnataka were bowled out for just 293, conceding a huge first-innings deficit.

Maintaining their dominance, Jammu and Kashmir continued their batting charge in the second innings. Kamran Iqbal played a sensational knock of 160 runs, while Sahil also struck a century. With an overall lead crossing 630 runs, the match became completely one-sided and eventually ended in a draw.

As per Ranji Trophy rules, when a final ends in a draw, the team with the first-innings lead is declared the winner—sealing Jammu and Kashmir’s historic championship victory.

Omar Abdullah Hails Historic Achievement

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was present in Hubli to witness the historic moment. He met the players, congratulated the entire squad, and said that this achievement would inspire future generations in the region to take up cricket and sports.

Aaqib Nabi Shines as Tournament Hero

Fast bowler Aaqib Nabi emerged as the standout performer of the tournament. He finished the season as the highest wicket-taker with 60 wickets. In the final’s first innings, Nabi claimed five wickets, following his remarkable hauls of nine wickets in the semi-final and 12 wickets in the quarter-final.