Jammu,Feb 28 : Jammu and Kashmir created history on Saturday by winning their maiden Ranji Trophy, defeating eight-time champions Karnataka in a drawn final courtesy of a dominant first-innings lead. The triumph represents a milestone in the region’s cricketing journey. Making their debut in a Ranji final, JK showed remarkable composure and control throughout the contest. After posting 584 in reply to Karnataka’s 293 in the first innings, they consolidated their advantage, finishing the second innings at 342/4, thereby establishing an unassailable lead to secure the title.
The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha termed Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy triumph as the Union Territory’s “finest hour,” with the LG expressing deep pride and emotion over the historic achievement.
In a post shared by the Office of LG J&K on X, the Lieutenant Governor said emotions were “surging beyond words” as he watched the J&K cricket team lift the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
Praising the players for their grit and determination, the LG congratulated the team for carving their names into history through sheer hard work and resilience. He said the entire Union Territory is beaming with pride and thanked the squad for delivering a moment that will be remembered for generations.
The Lieutenant Governor further remarked that the players have immortalized history with their remarkable feat and urged them to embrace the honour with dignity as they script a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir’s sporting legacy
Celebrations broke out on the ground as the result was confirmed, with players dancing to dhol beats and head coach Ajay Sharma joining in the festivities, visibly elated. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who attended the match, lauded the team’s achievement, marking the end of a 67-year wait for the coveted title. Shubham Pundir’s crucial century laid the foundation for the victory, while pacer Auqib Nabi’s seventh five-wicket haul of the season further restricted Karnataka’s challenge. Nabi’s consistent performance throughout the tournament, culminating in his 60th wicket of the season, was instrumental in JK’s success.
JK’s disciplined and calculated approach with both bat and ball highlighted their steady growth in red-ball cricket. From underdogs to champions, their triumph reflects grit, determination, and the rising standard of cricket in the Union Territory.
February 28, 2026, will now be remembered as a historic day in Jammu and Kashmir’s sporting history.
