Jammu & Kashmir achieved a historic milestone by reaching their first-ever Ranji Trophy final after defeating Bengal by six wickets in the semi-final of the 2025-26 season. The match, held in Kalyani, marked a significant moment in the state’s cricketing history, ending a 67-year wait since their maiden appearance in the tournament.
J&K posted a first innings score of 302, with notable contributions from Abdul Samad (82) and Auqib Nabi, who took five wickets for 87 runs. In their second innings, they scored 126 for 4, led by Vanshaj Sharma’s unbeaten 43 and Samad’s quickfire 30* off 27 balls, setting Bengal a target of 97 runs.
Bengal, replying with 328 in their first innings, were anchored by Gharami’s 146, while Nabi claimed five wickets. In their second innings, they struggled to build a substantial total and were bowled out for 99, with Nabi adding four more wickets for 36 runs, sealing the victory for J&K.
The final moments were tense as J&K, requiring 83 with eight wickets in hand, faced a spirited Bengal attack led by Mohammed Shami and Akash Deep. Despite initial resistance from Pundir and Dogra, Bengal’s bowlers applied pressure, reducing J&K to 71 for 4. However, Samad’s aggressive batting shifted the momentum, smashing Akash Deep for a six and a four, then taking on Shahbaz Ahmed with back-to-back sixes.
Vanshaj Sharma then took charge, hitting three fours and a commanding six off Mukesh Kumar, igniting celebrations among the Jammu & Kashmir team. Their victory marks a fairy-tale season and ends a long wait, as they advance to the Ranji final for the first time in their history, 67 years after their debut in the tournament.
