The semifinal clash of the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 has reached a dramatic crescendo as Bengal and Jammu and Kashmir lock horns in a nerve-wracking contest. With a place in the final at stake, the game swung yet again on Day 4 when India pacer Mohammed Shami produced a moment of sheer brilliance to dismiss Shubham Pundir with an absolute jaffa. While J&K remain on the brink of history, Bengal have shown they are far from done.
Mohammed Shami dismisses Shubham Pundir with a beauty
The morning began with Jammu and Kashmir cautiously resuming their chase of 126. With the pitch offering variable movement and pressure mounting, every run carried weight. Pundir looked composed at the crease and even clipped Akash Deep elegantly through midwicket for a boundary to keep the scoreboard ticking.
But then came the Shami moment. Operating from around the wicket, the seasoned pacer pitched the ball on off stump and got it to hoop sharply back in. Pundir, tempted into a drive on the up, found himself completely beaten by the late movement. The ball sneaked past his bat and rattled the stumps, sending the Bengal camp into wild celebrations.
It was classic Shami — relentless seam position, subtle swing, and lethal accuracy. The dismissal injected fresh life into Bengal’s hopes and momentarily silenced the J&K dressing room.
Here’s the video:
Right on the money! 👊
Watch Mohd. Shami give Bengal their first breakthrough of the morning!
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J&K eye historic milestone
However, Jammu and Kashmir are still in command of the situation. Led by the experienced Paras Dogra, the side needs just 34 more runs to script history. At 92/4 in their chase of 126, they are tantalisingly close to sealing their first-ever appearance in a Ranji Trophy final.
For a team that has steadily risen through the ranks in recent seasons, this semifinal represents more than just a match — it is an opportunity to announce themselves on the biggest stage of India’s domestic circuit.
The tension is palpable. Every delivery is being watched with bated breath, every run cheered passionately. While Bengal continue to believe in a late twist, J&K know that composure will be their biggest ally in the final stretch.
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