Optimism runs high in Jammu and Kashmir as their cricket side dominates the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final versus Karnataka in Hubli. Iltija Mufti, daughter of Mehbooba Mufti and rising political voice, voiced early triumph on X: ‘Advance cheers for J&K’s maiden Ranji Trophy win. Aaqib Nabi’s stellar tournament play stands out.’
The match teeters on a knife-edge, but J&K’s strategy shines. Toss win led to batting, yielding 584 all out. Standouts included Shubham Pundir’s 121, Yawar Hasan Khan’s 88, Sahil Lotra’s 72, and fifties-plus from Kanhaiya Wadhavan (70), captain Paras Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61).
Karnataka managed 293, powered by Mayank Agarwal’s 160, thanks to Aaqib Nabi’s devastating 5/54. The 291-run lead positions J&K perfectly for a draw-decided victory.
First-timers in the final, J&K rode Nabi’s wave: 8 wickets on Madhya Pradesh (quarters), 9 on Bengal (semis) with 42 runs, both Player of the Match feats.
Mufti’s post amplifies regional fervor, where cricket unites divides. This pursuit of silverware amid adversity could redefine J&K’s sporting narrative, fostering pride and talent pipelines for generations.