Jammu and Kashmir cricket made history on Wednesday by defeating Bengal by six wickets in the Ranji Trophy semi-final at Kalyani’s Bengal Cricket Academy Ground. This triumph marks their maiden entry into the tournament’s final, powered by the exceptional performance of pace spearhead Aqib Nabi.
While the entire squad played its part, Nabi emerged as the game’s pivotal figure. His lethal bowling in key knockout stages has been the difference-maker, securing back-to-back Player of the Match honors.
The quarter-final against Madhya Pradesh saw J&K secure a commanding 56-run victory. Nabi was unplayable, bagging 7/40 in the first dig and 5/70 in the second, restricting MP and setting up the win.
Against Bengal, a team known for its batting depth, Nabi adapted seamlessly. He took 9 wickets across two innings – 5 in the first and 4 in the second – and anchored the innings with a gritty 42. This all-round display not only outfoxed Bengal but also punched J&K’s ticket to the final.
At 29, Nabi’s meteoric rise continues. Since his 2020 first-class debut for J&K, he’s become a hot property, with Delhi Capitals securing him for 8.40 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. Indian selectors will be watching closely as he eyes a bigger stage in the final.