Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) etched their name in domestic cricket history on Monday by reaching the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 semi-finals for the first time. The team secured the milestone with a sensational quarterfinal win over Madhya Pradesh at the Holkar Stadium in Indore, delivering a moment that will be remembered by cricket fans across the region.
The triumph was powered by a stellar performance from pace bowler Auqib Nabi, who dominated Madhya Pradesh’s batting lineup with a match-winning haul of 12 wickets. Nabi claimed seven wickets in the first innings, setting the tone for J&K’s pursuit of victory, and followed it up with a decisive five-wicket spell in the second innings, triggering a dramatic batting collapse.
Despite J&K being bowled out for modest totals in both innings, their bowlers, led by Nabi, turned the game on its head. His fiery first-innings spell gave J&K a crucial advantage, while his incisive second-innings burst ensured Madhya Pradesh could not recover, ultimately securing a historic win.
This victory is more than just a cricketing milestone; it marks a defining moment for the sport in Jammu & Kashmir. Over the years, the team had faced heartbreak in knockout stages, often falling short in crucial matches. Reaching the semi-finals is a testament to the growth of cricket in the region and the talent emerging from J&K’s ranks.
Team captain and coaching staff lauded the players’ dedication, highlighting how resilience, teamwork, and belief have been key in achieving this landmark success. Cricket fans and local media have celebrated this historic feat, hailing it as a new chapter for J&K cricket.
With the semi-finals ahead, J&K aims to carry their momentum forward, hoping to make a deep run and inspire future generations in the region to dream big in domestic cricket.
