Ranji Trophy Final 2025‑26: J&K on Verge of Historic Title
- Nilo Aslam
- Feb 28
- 2 min read
The Ranji Trophy 2025‑26 final between Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka has reached its crucial Day 5 with Jammu and Kashmir very close to winning the coveted domestic title for the first time in history.
Match Situation (Day 5 – Feb 28, 2026)
At the start of Day 5, Jammu & Kashmir held an enormous 477‑run overall lead over Karnataka after posting a massive 584 in their first innings and bowling Karnataka out for 293.
In their second innings, J&K resumed on 186/4 with Qamran Iqbal (94)* and Sahil Lotra (16)* at the crease meaning they could extend their advantage even further.
Under Ranji Trophy rules, if the match ends in a draw, the team with the first‑innings lead is declared champion giving J&K the edge in this final.
Key Performances So Far
Jammu & Kashmir’s First Innings Dominance: J&K piled up an imposing 584, with strong contributions from multiple batters.
Auqib Nabi’s Bowling: The fast bowler was instrumental, claiming a five‑wicket haul to bowl out Karnataka for 293 and secure a huge lead.
Mayank Agarwal’s Resistance: Despite the overall pressure, Karnataka’s Mayank Agarwal scored a battling 160 in their first innings, but the rest of the lineup couldn’t support adequately.
Qamran Iqbal’s Continued Form: Iqbal’s unbeaten knock has put J&K in total control heading into the final day's play.
Historic Moment for Jammu & Kashmir
If the match continues into Day 5 without a decisive result, J&K will clinch the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever ending more than six decades of first‑class games without a title.
What Happens Next
On Day 5, J&K will look to either build a bigger total and bowl Karnataka out again or secure the first‑innings advantage in case of a draw, which would be enough to win the trophy. Karnataka faces an uphill task to force a result or chase down a huge lead.
Match Snapshot (as of Day 5 Morning Play)
Jammu & Kashmir 1st Innings: 584 all out
Karnataka 1st Innings: 293 all out
Jammu & Kashmir 2nd Innings: 186/4 (Qamran Iqbal 94*)
Lead: J&K ahead by 477 runs
Likely Outcome: J&K on the brink of winning title based on first‑innings lead
Summary
This Ranji Trophy final has turned into a landmark moment for Jammu & Kashmir cricket, with the team firmly in control on Day 5. The sustained first‑innings lead and strong performances from key players like Auqib Nabi and Qamran Iqbal have put J&K on the cusp of their first-ever Ranji title.
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