Jammu & Kashmir scripted history on Saturday, lifting their first-ever Ranji Trophy title after securing a massive first-innings lead over Karnataka in the 2025–26 final in Hubballi.
Led by Paras Dogra, J&K were crowned champions after the five-day summit clash ended in a draw, with their commanding 291-run first-innings advantage proving decisive against the eight-time champions Karnataka.
Leaders and cricketing icons hail J&K’s historic Ranji triumph
Congratulatory messages poured in from political leaders and members of the cricketing fraternity following Jammu & Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy triumph.
Board of Control for Cricket in India President Mithun Manhas described the victory as the result of a long-term process and institutional backing.
“Well, I think it’s been an amazing journey. It started way back in June 2021. And I would like to especially thank the BCCI back then for the kind of support they gave us, especially Jay Bhai. And he was the first secretary back then, after a span of 67 years, who came to Jammu, saw our condition, and then there was no looking back for all of us.”
International Cricket Council Chairman Jay Shah also congratulated the side, terming it a story of perseverance:
“Congratulations to the Jammu & Kashmir team in India for scripting a remarkable story of grit and perseverance. While the players are fully deserving of the adulation they receive, one must also remember the contribution of the coaching staff, management and administrators from J&K who have toiled behind the scenes to fashion this landmark achievement. I am sure that this win will ignite belief in the hearts of the current generation from the region and drive the next one to pick up a bat or ball. Our sport is rich with such stories of inspiration from around the world and I hope this one also receives its fair share of admiration.”
Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah celebrated the historic win and announced a ₹2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff.
“They’ve done it. Well done J&K. #ranjitrophy2026 #RanjiTrophyFinal.”
In an official statement, his office added:
“Congratulating Team J&K on their historic triumph in the Ranji Trophy, the Chief Minister announced a cash reward of ₹2 crore for the players and support staff after their emphatic victory over Karnataka on their home turf. Calling it a watershed moment for Jammu & Kashmir cricket, he said the landmark win has filled the entire region with pride and inspiration. The players will also be entitled to government appointments under the recently notified rules for outstanding sportspersons.”
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan praised the leadership and all-round contributions:
“Historic moment for Jammu & Kashmir cricket. Maiden Ranji Trophy title built on belief, strong leadership from Paras Dogra and a remarkable season with the ball from Auqib Nabi. Big contributions from Shubham Pundir, Yawer Hassan, Qamran Iqbal, Sahil Lotra, Abdul Samad and the entire unit. Proud moment.”
1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal added:
“Congratulations to J&K winning the first Ranji trophy title. The players will remember for ever. Now the real cricket starts in J&K. Youngster will look up there heroes.”
Dominant performance in maiden final
Playing their first Ranji Trophy final in 67 years, J&K laid the foundation of their triumph with a monumental first-innings total of 584.
Shubham Pundir struck a masterful 121, while Yawer Hassan (88), captain Paras Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70) and Sahil Lotra (72) ensured six of the top seven batters registered half-centuries.
Despite a five-wicket haul from Karnataka pacer Prasidh Krishna (5/98), J&K’s total proved overwhelming.
Karnataka, boasting international names such as KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Devdutt Padikkal and Karun Nair, faltered under pressure and were bowled out for 293. Mayank Agarwal’s valiant 160 was the lone standout effort.
Auqib Nabi Dar starred with the ball, claiming 5/54 in 23 overs to dismantle Karnataka’s middle order. He finished the season with 55 wickets in eight matches and was named Player of the Series.
Batting again, J&K tightened their grip as Qamran Iqbal (160*) and Sahil Lotra (101*) powered the side to 342/4 before declaration, stretching the lead to 633 and sealing a fairytale finish.
Pundir was adjudged Player of the Match for his century in the first innings.