Jammu & Kashmir has scripted history and set up a flurry of jubilation in the Indian domestic landscape. By defeating two-time champions Bengal by six wickets at the Bengal Cricket Academy ground, J&K has reached its first-ever Ranji Trophy final in 66 years of competition.
The foundation for this historic win was laid on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. Despite holding a narrow 26-run first-innings lead, Bengal’s batting order crumbled in the second innings against a relentless J&K attack.
Nabi-Sunil: Auqib Nabi (4/36) and Sunil Kumar (4/27) moved the ball both ways under the morning moisture, skittling Bengal for a meager 99.
Target: J&K was left with a modest but potentially "edgy" target of 126 on a surface that was still offering turn and zip.
The chase began with tension as Mohammed Shami; fresh from his eight-wicket haul, scattered Shubham Pundir's stumps and removed captain Paras Dogra (9). At 71/4, the dream seemed to be wavering.
Abdul Samad (30* off 27), often criticized for losing his wicket at inopportune moments, played the most mature innings of his career. He took the attack to Akash Deep, plundering 18 runs in a single over to break the pressure.
Finishing blow: Partnering the tall southpaw Vanshaj Sharma (43*), Samad anchored the chase. Sharma eventually sealed the victory in style, launching a straight six off Mukesh Kumar to spark wild celebrations in the J&K dugout.
The Player of the Match, Auqib Nabi, has become the face of J&K’s dream run. With 53 wickets this season and a wrist position reminiscent of Shami himself, the 29-year-old from Baramulla is no longer just an IPL prospect for the Delhi Capitals, he is also a genuine Test contender.
My grandmother told me the highest glory would be to play for India. We worked hard, we beat Mumbai, MP, and now Bengal at their home. We deserved this final.
Auqib Nabi, Jammu & Kashmir
