In a monumental achievement for Indian domestic cricket, Jammu and Kashmir clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title, defeating Karnataka on first-innings lead in a thrilling final that ended in a draw. The match, played at Hubli, saw J&K post a commanding 584 in their first dig, while Karnataka could only muster 293 in response. J&K’s second innings reached 342 for 4 in 113 overs, securing the historic win through sheer resilience and strategic brilliance.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah led the congratulations, hailing the team’s grit and collective spirit on social media platform X. ‘Jammu & Kashmir team deserves full applause for scripting a tale of courage and dedication,’ Shah posted, emphasizing the unsung contributions of coaches, management, and administrators who toiled behind the scenes. He expressed confidence that this victory would ignite passion in young cricketers across the region, inspiring future generations to pick up the bat and ball.
The triumph is more than a trophy; it’s a beacon of hope for a region long challenged by adversities. Shah highlighted cricket’s power to forge inspirational stories, predicting widespread recognition for J&K’s feat. BCCI President Mithun Manhas credited the turnaround to efforts starting in June 2021, thanking former BCCI Secretary Jay Shah for pivotal support during a visit after 67 years.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh echoed the sentiments, praising the team for making history and vindicating selectors’ faith. This victory underscores the transformative potential of cricket in Jammu and Kashmir, promising a brighter future for its sporting talent. As celebrations continue, the nation watches with pride, eager for more such underdog stories.