Jammu and Kashmir has made history by reaching their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, winning against Bengal by six wickets in Kalyani. This victory in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 semifinal marks a significant achievement for a team that has shown growth, resilience, and teamwork over the years.
Abdul Samad drives Jammu and Kashmir’s success
With only a few runs needed, Vanshaj Sharma sealed the game in style by hitting Mukesh Kumar for a six, leading to joyous celebrations on the field.
Teammates rushed to celebrate, expressing disbelief and pride. Some players knelt in thanks, and the entire team joined in a huddle. The head coach was lifted onto their shoulders, highlighting the unity and spirit that defined this campaign. This win was more than just a game; it was a significant milestone.
While Vanshaj completed the chase, Abdul Samad changed the course of the match. Coming in at a critical moment, he played aggressively, hitting two impressive sixes against Shahbaz Ahmed, shifting the momentum towards J&K. His unbeaten 30 in the second innings complemented his crucial 82 in the first, showcasing his impact throughout the match.
Bowling attack led by Auqib Nabi Dar sets the stage
The win was built on strong bowling. After Bengal scored 328 in their first innings, thanks to Sudip Kumar Gharami‘s 146 and Abhimanyu Easwaran‘s 49, J&K stayed close with Auqib Nabi Dar taking 5/87.
In their reply, J&K scored 302, with Samad’s 82 and captain Paras Dogra‘s 58 anchoring the innings. However, Bengal collapsed to just 99 in their second innings under pressure from Dar (4/36) and Sunil Kumar (4/27).
Despite Mohammed Shami‘s impressive 8/90 in J&K’s first innings, the achievable target of 126 in the fourth innings felt accessible for the determined batting lineup.
A historic day for J&K Cricket
Chasing 126, J&K completed the task at 126/4, with Vanshaj scoring a smooth 43 to avoid any last-minute struggles. As the winning runs were hit, the significance of their achievement became clear. For a team that has faced numerous challenges, reaching the Ranji Trophy final is a testament to their hard work. Captain Dogra has played a key role with his batting and leadership, guiding the team effectively during the semifinal. The successful mix of young talent and experienced players has finally come together at a crucial moment in India’s domestic cricket.
The celebrations in Kalyani hint at a bigger celebration back home. Jammu and Kashmir’s historic journey has inspired many in the region, demonstrating that hard work and courage can overcome any obstacle.
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