25 Years, 10,000 Runs, Maiden Ranji Trophy Final: Paras Dogra’s Moment at Last for J&K

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Kalyani (West Bengal), Feb 18 - For Paras Dogra, it was a moment that took 25 years to arrive. The 41-year-old Jammu and Kashmir captain finally tasted Ranji Trophy final qualification after guiding his side to a historic six-wicket win over Bengal in the semifinal.

"25 saal ho gaye... ab tak final nahin khela tha. So very happy," Dogra said after the landmark victory. For a cricketer who debuted in the 2001-02 season and has endured the grind of domestic cricket across decades, the achievement carried an "unbelievable feeling".

Record Books and Redemption

In the same match, Dogra etched his name into the history of the Ranji Trophy, becoming only the second batter after Wasim Jaffer to cross 10,000 runs in the tournament. With over 10,500 first-class runs at an average close to 50, 33 Ranji centuries and nine double hundreds, his career stands as a testament to remarkable longevity and consistency.

Yet, personal milestones took a backseat to collective glory. "I didn't bring something special. The guys are very keen, they have the hunger to win. I had only a small contribution. It's a very good group. Everyday is a new day for me," Dogra said, crediting the team effort.

Belief After Setbacks

Jammu and Kashmir's journey this season was far from smooth. They began with a heavy defeat to Mumbai but refused to let that define their campaign.

"We lost by a big margin to Mumbai but there was no question mark. We always had the belief to win the Ranji Trophy," Dogra asserted.

The pain of last season's heartbreak - missing out on a semifinal spot after losing to Kerala on first-innings lead by just one run - only strengthened their resolve.

"Last year too we played quarters but lost out on first innings lead by one run," he recalled.

Leadership and Chemistry

Dogra's move to Jammu and Kashmir came after stints with Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry. He revealed that it was a call from Mithun Manhas that brought him in as captain.

"Mithun bhai really wanted me, he phoned me. They wanted a leader. I thought, let's see how it goes. I never thought I would get such a good group. It's all because of his support," Dogra said.

He emphasised that the core of the side already had potential before his arrival.

Bowling the Cornerstone

Dogra firmly believes that championships are built on bowling depth.

"If you want to win matches, you have to take 20 wickets. We have five good bowlers who can take 20 wickets. I think we have that strength," he said, adding that fast bowling remains the team's primary weapon.

That clarity was evident in Kalyani, where J&K bowled Bengal out for 99 in the second innings before calmly chasing down 126 to seal victory with a day to spare.

Among the season's standout performers has been pacer Auqib Nabi, whose rise Dogra attributes to discipline and work ethic.

"It's about work ethics and performance. He deserves to play for the country," Dogra added.

A Veteran Still Hungry

Even at 41, Dogra continues to set standards with his fitness and sharp fielding.

"It's daily routine... how much you train. Every day I put something in to keep myself fit. Consistency is very important, be it in practice or eating habits," he said.

For a man who has represented three states and played 152 first-class matches, the long wait has finally ended. But as Paras Dogra prepares for his first Ranji Trophy final, his mindset remains unchanged - one day at a time.