Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket team has scripted a fairy-tale ending by winning the Ranji Trophy title for the first time, sparking widespread celebrations and heartfelt tributes from top leaders. LG Manoj Sinha’s message of optimism set the tone: ‘The best time has come for Jammu and Kashmir,’ he tweeted, visibly moved by the team’s feat.
In a post attributed to him on the LG office’s X handle, Sinha lauded the players’ bravery in forging a historic path. ‘My emotions transcend words as I witness our team conquering the Ranji Trophy. Thank you from the entire UT for making history immortal,’ he said, urging them to cherish the honor.
Echoing the sentiment, CM Omar Abdullah shared a festive video of the victorious squad on X, simply stating, ‘Kar dikhaya, well done J&K.’ The victory has ignited street parties and social media frenzy among fans, with national figures also extending their best wishes.
Diving into the decisive match against Karnataka at Hubli’s D.R. Bendre Stadium, J&K’s batsmen dominated after winning the toss. Shubham Pundir’s century (121), alongside valuable knocks from Yawar Hasan Khan (88), Sahil Lotra (72), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70), and captain Paras Dogra (70), propelled them to 584 all out.
Karnataka folded for 293, despite Mayank Agarwal’s resilient 160. Aquib Nabi’s five-for dismantled the opposition, supported by two wickets each from Sunil Kumar and Yudhvir Singh, and one from Sahil Lotra. With a 291-run advantage, J&K’s second innings featured Kamar Iqbal’s unbeaten 160 and Sahil Lotra’s 101 not out in a 197-run stand, declaring at 342/4. The draw favored J&K as champions.
Beyond the scoreboard, this win represents hope and unity for J&K. It’s a testament to the team’s grit, honed through years of trials, and a beacon for young athletes dreaming big in the region.