J&K Ranji Team Meets ICC Chief Jay Shah to Recognize Efforts in Boosting Cricket Development
Players Acknowledge Shah’s Role in Strengthening Cricket in Jammu & Kashmir
New Delhi, Mar 5: The Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy team met International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah to recognize his pivotal role in developing cricket in the state during his tenure as BCCI Secretary. The meeting came after J&K clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title in the 2025-26 season, ending a 67-year wait for the prestigious domestic crown.
In a statement on X, the BCCI highlighted that the players “expressed a heartfelt desire” to meet Shah and share their historic triumph, acknowledging his efforts in supporting cricket infrastructure and player development in Jammu & Kashmir.
“The historic triumph of Jammu & Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy will remain a proud milestone for cricket in the region. After their memorable victory, the players expressed a heartfelt desire to meet Hon. ICC Chair @JayShah and share this special moment with him, acknowledging the role his leadership played in strengthening cricket in Jammu & Kashmir during his tenure as BCCI Secretary. We sincerely thank Mr. Shah for taking the time to meet the team and for sharing his words of encouragement,” said the BCCI.
Historic Triumph on the Field
Led by captain Paras Dogra, J&K secured the Ranji Trophy after a drawn final against Karnataka, winning on first-innings lead. The team posted a commanding 584 runs in their first innings, with notable contributions from Shubham Pundir (121), Yawer Hassan (88), Paras Dogra (70), Abdul Samad (61), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70), and Sahil Lotra (72).
Karnataka, featuring international stars such as KL Rahul, Mayank Agarwal, Devdutt Padikkal, and Karun Nair, managed only 293 in their first innings, handing J&K a massive 291-run lead. J&K’s Auqib Nabi shone with the ball, taking 5/54 and playing a crucial role in securing the championship.
In their second innings, J&K were propelled by an unbeaten 160 from Qamran Iqbal. Paras Dogra declared at 342/4, leading by 633 runs before both teams shook hands on the final day.
Awards and Recognition
Shubham Pundir was named Player of the Match, while Auqib Nabi earned the Player of the Series award for his 55 wickets in eight matches, underscoring J&K’s dominance throughout the season.
This landmark victory not only marks a historic achievement for Jammu & Kashmir cricket but also highlights the lasting impact of leadership support in nurturing talent and building infrastructure in the region.
