Jammu and Kashmir defeated Karnataka to claim their first Ranji Trophy on February 28, 2026, in Hubballi, ending a 66-year quest. The victory, built on home-grown talent, featured standout performances from players like Auqib Nabi and Shubham Pundir. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced a Rs 2 crore reward, sparking mixed reactions among fans.
The final unfolded at the D.R. Bendre Cricket Stadium in Hubballi, where Jammu and Kashmir secured a historic win at 2:11 pm on February 28, 2026. Facing eight-time champions Karnataka, J&K's batsmen dominated with centuries from Shubham Pundir, Qamran Iqbal, and Sahil Lotra, alongside crucial half-centuries in the first innings. Fast bowler Auqib Nabi sealed the triumph by taking five wickets in the final, capping a season where he claimed the most wickets with at least three five-wicket hauls. Left-arm pacer Sunil Kumar contributed 29 wickets across eight matches.
This maiden title marked the end of a 66-year wait for Jammu and Kashmir, a team once considered underdogs in domestic cricket. The success highlighted the region's focus on local talent, embracing a 'vocal for local' approach well before its 2024 formalization. Auqib Nabi, from Sheeri near Baramulla, was recently signed by Delhi Capitals for Rs 8.4 crore in the IPL auction.
Reactions poured in from leaders and cricketers. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha called it “J&K’s finest hour,” while Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the team's “remarkable grit, discipline and passion.” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah described the win as a “watershed moment,” announcing a Rs 2 crore cash reward for players and support staff, plus eligibility for government jobs under new sports rules. PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti noted it as a reminder that “the spirit of J&K can never be broken,” and BJP's J&K President Sat Sharma lauded their “grit, passion and teamwork.”
Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik tweeted, “Jammu & Kashmir crowned the Ranji Trophy champions for the first time. A monumental moment for the state and domestic cricket!! Well done, team, truly well deserved.” Mohammed Kaif added, “Historic day for Jammu & Kashmir cricket... More players from J&K will now believe that they too can do it.” However, the reward drew mixed responses, with some fans comparing it unfavorably to IPL base prices, calling it an insult to the champions' achievement.
