In a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, the team has stormed into the Ranji Trophy final for the first time ever, thanks to the brilliance of fast bowler Aqib Nabi. On Wednesday, at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani, J&K pulled off a stunning six-wicket victory over a formidable Bengal side in the semi-final.
The journey to this historic final has been a collective effort, but Aqib Nabi stands out as the undisputed star. The 29-year-old right-arm pacer has been a revelation, earning Player of the Match awards in both the quarter-final against Madhya Pradesh and the semi-final against Bengal.
In the quarter-final, J&K crushed Madhya Pradesh by 56 runs. Nabi’s bowling was devastating: he claimed 7 wickets for 40 runs in the first innings and 5 for 70 in the second, dismantling the opposition completely.
Facing Bengal in the semi-final was no small task. Yet, J&K rose to the challenge. Nabi struck again, taking 5 wickets in the first innings and 4 in the second, while also contributing a crucial 42 runs with the bat in the first innings. His all-round heroics sealed the win and a final berth, earning him yet another Player of the Match accolade.
Nabi’s form has caught the eye of fans and selectors alike. Debuting for J&K in first-class cricket in 2020, he has now been snapped up by Delhi Capitals for IPL 2026 at a whopping 8.40 crore. As J&K prepares for the final, all eyes will be on Nabi to continue his dream run and potentially propel the team to glory.