Jammu and Kashmir cricket created history on February 18, 2026, by entering their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, defeating Bengal by six wickets in the semifinal at Kalyani. The landmark victory ended a 67-year wait since the team’s debut in the 1959-60 season and sparked celebrations across the Union Territory, with fans and cricketing legends flooding social media with congratulatory messages.
Electing to field first, J&K responded resiliently to Bengal’s 328-run first innings and 99-run second innings. After scoring 302 in their first innings, the team chased down the remaining 126 with composure, sealing a historic berth in the final. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah hailed the collective effort behind the triumph, emphasizing its significance for the people of the region and the future of cricket in J&K.
BCCI president Mithun Manhas, who played a crucial role in rebuilding the state’s cricketing structure, expressed his emotions after the victory, praising the efforts of talent hunts, committees, and administrators like Brigadier Anil Gupta. He highlighted left-arm seamer Sunil Kumar as a standout product of this process. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan also joined the celebrations, praising Aquib Navi’s performance and suggesting that a Test debut could be on the horizon for the young star.
Aquib Navi was the standout performer, taking nine wickets in the match and contributing 42 vital runs in the first innings. His match-winning all-round display was pivotal in securing the team’s historic advancement.
This achievement represents a defining moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket, ending decades of underdog status and showcasing the power of perseverance, structural rebuilding, and belief. As the team prepares for the final, they stand on the cusp of completing one of the most remarkable chapters in the history of the Ranji Trophy.
