Jammu & Kashmir reach first Ranji final
Jammu & Kashmir scripted history on February 18, 2026, defeating Bengal in the Ranji Trophy semifinal to book their maiden spot in the tournament final. Playing in Kolkata, the underdogs sealed the landmark win with a disciplined bowling display and a composed chase, marking the biggest achievement in the state’s cricketing history.
After taking a crucial first-innings lead, J&K tightened control with timely wickets in Bengal’s second innings, leaving themselves a manageable target. Their batters held their nerve on the final day, stitching steady partnerships to cross the line and spark celebrations in the dressing room.
“This is a dream moment for us and for the people back home,” captain Paras Dogra said after the win. “We believed we could compete with the best.”
Bengal skipper Anustup Majumdar admitted, “We had our chances but couldn’t capitalize when it mattered.”
Having never reached this stage before, Jammu & Kashmir now stand one win away from an extraordinary Ranji Trophy triumph.