Ranji Trophy 2025–26 ended with a historic moment as Jammu & Kashmir cricket team lifted their maiden title at the KSCA Stadium in Hubli.
Led by Paras Dogra, Jammu & Kashmir secured the championship after drawing the final against eight-time winners Karnataka cricket team and claiming the trophy on the basis of a crucial first-innings lead. It marked a landmark achievement, as J&K became only the ninth team in tournament history to win the title in their debut final appearance.
An emotional Dogra described the triumph as the greatest moment of his life. “I can’t explain to be honest. I don’t have any words right now. It’s the biggest thing right now in my life. This will be with me till the time I go away from this world,” he said after the match.
Jammu & Kashmir’s title run was built on collective effort. They defeated Bengal convincingly in the semifinal and carried that momentum into the final, delivering an all-round performance. Auqib Nabi starred with the ball, claiming 60 wickets this season. Abdul Samad contributed over 700 runs, while Qamran Iqbal played a vital knock in the final.
Reflecting on the campaign, Dogra praised the entire squad. “I have been lucky to be with JKCA and the guys have been phenomenal. They have been excellent and it’s not about this 11. All 14, 15 of them have been phenomenal,” he said.
He also highlighted the team’s belief from the very beginning. “They are really keen to win the matches and from the beginning and were 100 per cent sure that we’re gonna win this,” Dogra added, summing up a truly historic season for Jammu & Kashmir cricket.
