Jammu & Kashmir Reach Ranji Trophy Final for First Time in 67-Year History
Jammu & Kashmir created history by reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time, defeating Bengal in the semifinal with a strong all-round performance led by Aqib Nabi Dar.
Prasanth Subramani
Jammu and Kashmir have reached the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in their 67-year history, creating a historic milestone in Indian domestic cricket.
In the semifinal held at Kalyani in West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir faced Bengal. After winning the toss on February 15, Jammu and Kashmir captain Paras Dogra chose to bowl first.
Bengal First Innings – 328 All Out
Bengal scored 328 runs in 97.1 overs in their first innings, with Sudip Kumar Gharami top-scoring with 146 runs. For Jammu and Kashmir, Aqib Nabi Dar delivered an excellent bowling performance, claiming five wickets.
Jammu & Kashmir First Innings – 302 All Out
In reply, Jammu and Kashmir were bowled out for 302 in 76.1 overs. Abdul Samad was the top scorer with 82 runs. Bengal pacer Mohammed Shami impressed by taking eight wickets.
Bengal Second Innings – 99 All Out
Bengal, starting with a 26-run lead, collapsed for just 99 runs in 25.1 overs in their second innings. Aqib Nabi Dar and Sunil Kumar took four wickets each.
Jammu & Kashmir Second Innings – 126/4
Chasing a target of 125, Jammu and Kashmir reached 126/4 in 34.4 overs, winning the match by six wickets. Vanshraj Sharma scored 43 runs, while Abdul Samad contributed 30 runs.
Aqib Nabi Dar, who took a total of nine wickets across both innings, was named Player of the Match.
Jammu and Kashmir, who entered the Ranji Trophy 67 years ago, have now qualified for the final for the first time. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the team for their historic achievement.
