In a stunning turnaround that echoes through Indian cricket history, Jammu and Kashmir clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title on Saturday, drawing against eight-time champions Karnataka in the final and securing victory on first-innings lead. This victory, after 67 years of heartbreak, marks the culmination of a gritty journey from obscurity to glory.
Jammu and Kashmir’s first foray into the Ranji Trophy came in 1959, but early years were marked by consistent defeats against powerhouses. Lacking basic infrastructure and star power, the team often returned to the dressing room dejected. The 1990s were no different, with losses piling up and morale at rock bottom.
The tide began to turn under the guidance of legendary spinner Bishan Singh Bedi, who took over as coach and instilled a winning mentality. Bedi’s coaching ignited a fire in the dressing room, teaching players the art of fighting on the field. The payoff came in the 2013-14 season when J&K reached the quarterfinals for the first time, injecting much-needed confidence.
The breakthrough moment arrived in 2014-15 under captain Parvez Rasool, who led the side to a historic group-stage win over mighty Mumbai, grabbing national headlines. Post-2019 administrative changes following the abrogation of Article 370 brought transparency in selections, better funding, and upgraded facilities like new training centers and turf wickets. Direct BCCI ties ensured top coaching and exposure.
The real transformation accelerated when BCCI president Mithun Manhas assumed control of the J&K Cricket Association. His ground-level reforms, including appointing Ajay Sharma as head coach in 2022, revolutionized the setup. Sharma built unbreakable team spirit, fostering resilience and skill. Captain Paras Dogra led the charge, culminating in the 2025-26 Ranji glory.
Heroes abounded: pacer Aquib Nabi Dar’s 60 wickets in 10 matches dismantled opponents, while batsmen Shubham Pundir and skipper Dogra shone bright. This isn’t just a win; it’s the dawn of a dominant era for J&K cricket, inspiring future generations to dream big.