In a moment of unbridled joy for cricket lovers in Jammu and Kashmir, the state’s team has clinched the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever, etching their name in the annals of Indian domestic cricket. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha celebrated the victory with exuberant words, declaring that ‘the best time for Jammu and Kashmir has arrived.’
Speaking on the official X account of the J&K LG office, Sinha expressed emotions beyond words while watching the team lift the trophy. He praised every player for their courage in creating history, thanking them on behalf of the entire Union Territory. ‘You have immortalized history. Embrace it with pride,’ he added, capturing the sentiment of a region basking in glory.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah joined the chorus of congratulations, posting a video of the team’s jubilant celebrations on X with the caption, ‘You did it, well done Jammu and Kashmir.’ Fans across the state erupted in festivities, with cheers echoing from Srinagar to Jammu, marking a rare and cherished sporting milestone.
The final clash unfolded at the D.R. Bendre Cricket Stadium in Hubli against Karnataka. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, J&K posted a formidable 584 in their first innings, powered by Shubham Pundir’s masterful 121, Yawar Hasan Khan’s gritty 88, Sahil Lotra’s 72, Kanhaiya Wadhawan’s 70, and skipper Paras Dogra’s anchoring 70. Karnataka managed 293 in reply, with captain Mayank Agarwal’s 160 being the standout effort.
J&K’s bowlers shone brightly: Aquib Nabi claimed a five-wicket haul, while Sunil Kumar and Yudhvir Singh took two each, and Sahil Lotra chipped in with one. Holding a commanding 291-run lead, J&K declared their second innings at 342 for four, highlighted by an unbroken 197-run partnership between opener Kamar Iqbal (160 not out) and Sahil Lotra (101 not out). The match ended in a draw, but J&K’s first-innings dominance sealed their championship.
This triumph isn’t just about cricket; it’s a symbol of resilience for a region that has overcome immense challenges. As congratulations pour in from across India, J&K’s cricketers have inspired a generation, proving that perseverance pays off on the biggest stages.