J&K Beat Bengal to Enter Maiden Ranji Final; CM Omar Hails Historic Feat

Kalyani/Jammu, Feb 18: Jammu and Kashmir created history by entering the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in 67 years, defeating two-time champions Bengal by six wickets on day four of the semifinal in Kalyani on Wednesday, as Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the team for the landmark achievement.

Chasing a modest 126, J&K reached 126/4 in 34.4 overs, with Vanshaj Sharma (43 not out) and Abdul Samad (30 not out) sharing an unbroken 55-run stand after early setbacks, sealing a defining moment in the side’s domestic cricket journey.

The victory was set up by pace spearhead Auqib Nabi, who claimed nine wickets in the match to dismantle Bengal and tilt the contest decisively in J&K’s favour.

J&K, which made its Ranji debut in 1959–60 and had rarely been considered title contenders, had reached 43/2 at stumps on day three. They lost Shubham Pundir (27) and skipper Paras Dogra (9) early on the final day before Vanshaj and Samad guided them home.

Brief scores: Bengal 328 & 99 (25.1 overs); J&K 302 & 126/4 (34.4 overs).

Congratulating the side, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the triumph reflected sustained hard work, discipline and collective effort of players, coaches and support staff, and inspired young sportspersons across the Union Territory.

“On my behalf, and on behalf of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, I extend heartfelt congratulations. I hope the day is not far when we will see players from Jammu and Kashmir playing a very important role in the national team,” he said.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure and nurturing emerging talent in J&K. (Agencies)