J&K Dominate Ranji Final Day 1 with Pundir's 117* vs Karnataka

In a display of resolute batting, Jammu and Kashmir dominated proceedings on day one of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Elite final at Hubli's KSCA ground. Finishing at 284/2 after electing to bat first, the team rode on Shubham Pundir's unbeaten 117 to seize control against Karnataka.

An early jolt came at 18/1 as Kamran Iqbal was dismissed cheaply for 6. Enter Yawar Hasan, who partnered Pundir brilliantly for 139 runs. Hasan's 88 off 150 balls, laced with 13 fours, set a solid platform before his departure.

Paras Dogra added a quick 9 in company of Pundir before being forced to retire hurt. Pundir, undeterred, teamed up with Abdul Samad for an unbroken 105-run alliance. The star batter's vigil spanned 221 balls, including 12 boundaries and a couple of sixes, while Samad's aggressive 52 came from 67 deliveries.

Prasidh Krishna toiled hard for Karnataka, snaring both wickets for 36 runs in 16 overs. As the captains—Dogra for J&K and Padikkal for Karnataka—eye glory, J&K's first-innings intent signals a fierce battle ahead. Karnataka must strike early tomorrow to claw back into contention.