Ranji Trophy: Jammu & Kashmir script History, win Maiden Ranji Title beating Karnataka

In a landmark moment for Indian domestic cricket, Jammu and Kashmir clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title on February 28, 2026, defeating eight-time champions Karnataka in the final at the KSCA Cricket Ground in Hubballi.

The match ended in a draw, but J&K emerged victorious on the basis of a commanding 291-run first-innings lead, marking the culmination of a 67-year journey since their Ranji debut in the 1959-60 season.

Jammu amp amp Kashmir script History win Maiden Ranji Trophy Title beating Karnataka

Led by captain Paras Dogra, who surpassed 10,000 Ranji runs in his career during the campaign, Jammu and Kashmir dominated from the outset. Opting to bat first, they posted a mammoth 584 in their opening innings. Opener Shubham Pundir anchored the effort with a crucial century (121), supported by solid contributions across the lineup, including key partnerships that frustrated Karnataka's bowlers.

The bowling attack, spearheaded by Auqib Nabi, proved decisive. Nabi's five-wicket haul in Karnataka's reply restricted them to 293, handing J&K the massive lead. His seventh five-wicket haul of the season underscored his emergence as a vital asset. Karnataka, featuring several India Test stars, never recovered momentum and failed to win a single session across the five days-a testament to J&K's all-round supremacy.

In their second innings, J&K batted positively, reaching 342/4 declared, with centuries from Yawer Hassan and Sahil Lotra ensuring no late drama. Captain Dogra declared strategically, setting an improbable target while securing the title under Ranji rules for drawn finals.

This victory represents more than silverware; it's a beacon of hope and inspiration for cricket in the Union Territory. After reaching the quarterfinals thrice before but never progressing further, J&K's path this season showcased relentless hard work, belief, and collective grit. The triumph evoked widespread celebrations, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah present in Hubballi to witness the historic day.