Ranji Trophy 2025-26, J&K vs Hyderabad - Round Up: J&K beat Hyderabad by 281 runs for second straight win

Srinagar, Nov 19: Jammu & Kashmir delivered one of their most complete and authoritative performances in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, crushing Hyderabad by 281 runs in Jammu to register back-to-back victories. Across four days of cricket, J&K showcased their growing maturity, depth and hunger with standout contributions from every department, seam, spin and batting.

From Auqib Nabi’s fiery new-ball spells to Abdul Samad’s superb century, from Abid Mushtaq’s relentless spin assault to Kanhaiya Wadhwan’s near-perfect 95, and crucial roles played by Sunil Kumar and Qamran Iqbal, J&K dominated almost every session after an early wobble on Day 1.

This win signals a team fast evolving into a formidable red-ball unit.

Day 1: Auqib’s Opening Burst Rescues J&K After Batting Collapse

J&K were put under pressure early on the opening day as the top order crumbled to 32/5, continuing their struggle to find stability at the top. Abid Mushtaq (57 off 49) and Sahil Lotra (36 off 73) staged a spirited recovery, while Abdul Samad’s fighting 34 ensured J&K reached a modest 170.

Hyderabad appeared poised to take control, but Auqib Nabi flipped the script with a sensational new-ball spell. His precision, late movement and disciplined attack earned him three vital wickets, reducing Hyderabad to 81/6. Sunil Kumar chipped in with tight bowling and the wicket of Rahul Radesh, keeping J&K in the contest.

As the teams walked off at the end of Day 1, J&K had clawed their way back into the game.

Day 2: Sunil and Auqib Run Through Hyderabad, Samad–Wadhwan Partnership Takes Charge

The second day belonged entirely to J&K. Sunil Kumar delivered his best spell of the season, registering an outstanding 5/29 with relentless accuracy and control. Auqib Nabi continued his golden run, picking up 4/39, dismantling Hyderabad for just 121 and giving J&K a crucial 49-run first-innings lead.

The second innings saw a shift in batting intent. Qamran Iqbal’s fluent 50 set the tone, showcasing his growing comfort at the top and sending a strong signal. Vivrant Sharma battled his way to a crucial 45 before falling short of a big one.

But the day truly belonged to Abdul Samad and Kanhaiya Wadhwan, who combined for a magnificent, unbeaten 148-run stand. Samad’s controlled aggression and Wadhwan’s fluency pushed J&K into a position of dominance as they finished Day 2 on 275/4, their lead swelling to a commanding 324.

Day 3: Samad’s Century and Spin Assault Leave Hyderabad Crumbling

Resuming Day 3, Samad wasted no time converting his overnight 77* into a majestic 125 off 200 balls, a knock defined by maturity, patience, and well-timed aggression. Wadhwan, unlucky to fall short of his ton, made a brilliant 95, further solidifying his position as a rising star in J&K’s middle order.

Abid Mushtaq added a quick-fire 22 as J&K finished their innings at 422, setting Hyderabad a mountainous 472-run target.

Hyderabad began positively, but once the spinners were introduced, J&K tightened the noose. Abid Mushtaq (4/56) and Sahil Lotra (2/28) ripped through the middle order, triggering a dramatic collapse of 4 wickets for 7 runs. Hyderabad limped to 169/7 at stumps, still 303 runs away from the target.

By the end of Day 3, J&K were all but guaranteed another victory.

Day 4: Mushtaq Finishes the Job, J&K Seal 281-Run Win

The final day lasted barely an hour. Spinner Abid Mushtaq completed his seven-wicket haul (7/68) with ruthless precision, wiping out the tail and bowling Hyderabad out for 190.

Abdul Samad was awarded Player of the Match.

Meanwhile, former J&K skipper Samiullah Beigh praised the team’s growing depth and multiple match-winners, saying, “Outstanding performance. The best part is that spinners Abid and Sahil Lotra have delivered in consecutive matches, showing this team has different match winners. Abdul Samad’s consistent run and his ability to dominate attacks are crucial. The leadership of Paras Dogra and the consistent bowling excellence of Auqib Nabi also deserve appreciation.”