Jammu & Kashmir’s dream run in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 has captivated the nation, culminating in their maiden final appearance against Karnataka in Hubli. At the heart of this fairy tale is fiery pacer Aaqib Nabi, whose lethal spells have turned heads and sparked calls for his India inclusion.
Sourav Ganguly, the legendary ‘Dada’ of Indian cricket, led the chorus on X: ‘J&K proved effort and resolve conquer all. They’ve instilled pride in their homeland. Adversity builds champions. Aaqib Nabi is primed for India colors—England tour this summer is perfect.’ By tagging BCCI and Ajit Agarkar, Ganguly made it a direct appeal.
With India’s England tour looming in July—five T20s and three ODIs as a World Cup 2027 appetizer—Nabi’s timing is impeccable. His tournament stats are staggering: 5-fer in the final’s first dig (5/54), plus match-winning hauls of 8/against MP in quarters and 9/against Bengal in semis, where he also batted stoutly for 42.
J&K set the tone by electing to bat after winning toss, amassing 584. Standout knocks came from Shubham Pundir (121), Yawar Hasan Khan (88), Sahil Lotra (72), Paras Dogra and Kanhaiya Wadhavan (70 each), and Abdul Samad (61). Karnataka faltered to 293, Mayank Agarwal’s 160 a lone fightback against Nabi’s barrage.
Holding a 291-run lead, J&K eyes glory; a draw hands them the trophy on first-innings lead. Ganguly’s backing highlights how domestic gems like Nabi can revitalize India’s pace attack, promising fresh excitement for fans ahead of the international calendar.