J&K Clinch First-Ever Ranji Trophy Championship | 02 Mar 2026

Why in News?

The Jammu & Kashmir cricket team created history by winning their first Ranji Trophy title in the 2025-26 season.

Key Points:

• Historic Victory: Jammu and Kashmir clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title in the 2025-26 season.
  • The final match ended in a draw, and J&K won the title on the basis of a 291-run first-innings lead over Karnataka.
• Venue: The 2025-26 Ranji Trophy final was held at the KSCA Cricket Stadium, Hubballi, Karnataka.
  • Winner: Jammu and Kashmir cricket team
  • Runner-up: Karnataka cricket team
  • Title Won After: 67 years
• Captain: The Jammu and Kashmir cricket team was led by Paras Dogra during their historic 2025-26 Ranji Trophy title-winning campaign.
• Man of the Match: Shubham Pundir — awarded for his crucial century (121 runs) in the first innings of the final, which laid the foundation for Jammu and Kashmir cricket team’s victory. 
• Player of the Tournament: Auqib Nabi Dar — recognised for his exceptional bowling performance throughout the season, finishing as the leading wicket-taker.
• Long Wait Ends: The debut Season of J&K was in the 1959-60 season. 
  • This landmark triumph ends a 67-year wait for the prestigious domestic championship in Indian first-class cricket. 
• Significance: This victory not only marks the first time Jammu and Kashmir have been crowned Ranji champions but also highlights the growth and resilience of cricket in a region long viewed as a peripheral player in Indian domestic cricket.