Ranji Trophy 2025-26: J&K, Rajasthan set for face-off at SK Stadium today

by · Greater Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 24: All is set for Jammu and Kashmir’s second home fixture of the domestic season, the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, as they take on Rajasthan in a Ranji Trophy encounter starting Saturday at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, Srinagar.

As per the JKCA officials, the toss is scheduled for 9:00 am, with play commencing at 9:30 am.

JKCA officials told Greater Kashmir that both teams held their final practice sessions, with the forecast for the match remaining clear. If sources are to be believed, Umran Malik is expected to spearhead the pace attack. “Beyond that, there won’t be many changes. It is mostly a settled combination,” sources said.

Meanwhile, cricket fans in the valley are expecting to see the J&K team build on the fighting display in the opening Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai, which J&K lost narrowly by 35 runs.

That four-day thriller at the same venue showcased J&K’s growing stature in domestic cricket. Mumbai held their nerve to defeat J&K by 35 runs, but not before the hosts pushed the 41-time Ranji champions to the brink. The contest featured fiery spells, patient centuries, and a vocal crowd that backed the home side till the final session.

J&K skipper Paras Dogra led from the front with a superb 144, steadying the innings after early setbacks, while Auqib Nabi shone with both bat and ball, taking 7 wickets for 106 runs.

Former J&K players and cricket observers hailed the team’s performance as a sign of renewed belief and maturity. “With Auqib Nabi emerging as a strike weapon and Paras Dogra leading from the front, J&K showcased fight and discipline across all four days,” said a former cricketer.

Top officials, including the BCCI President, are expected to be in attendance for today’s game between J&K and Rajasthan.

With confidence high and the home crowd behind them, Jammu and Kashmir will look to turn promise into points when they face Rajasthan in what promises to be another gripping contest at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium.