Fans go wild as Jammu and Kashmir script history with maiden Ranji Trophy final berth after stunning win over Bengal

Feb 18, 2026

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Jammu and Kashmir beat Bengal to enter Ranji Trophy final for the first time

It was a moment that will be remembered for generations in the Valley. Jammu and Kashmir stormed into their first-ever Ranji Trophy final with a commanding six-wicket win over Bengal in Kalyani, sparking emotional celebrations on and off the field. The triumph in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 semifinal marked a watershed moment for a team that has steadily built belief, resilience, and character over the years.

Abdul Samad turns the tide for Jammu and Kashmir

With just a handful of runs needed, Vanshaj Sharma ensured there would be no late drama. Backing away to create room, he launched Mukesh Kumar straight over his head for a towering six to seal the chase in style. The ball sailing into the stands was the cue for unrestrained joy.

Teammates sprinted towards the middle, arms raised, faces lit with disbelief and pride. Players embraced, some dropped to their knees, and soon the entire squad gathered in a celebratory huddle. In heartwarming scenes, the head coach was lifted onto the players’ shoulders — a symbolic gesture for a campaign built on unity and fearless cricket. It was more than just a win; it was a statement.

While Vanshaj applied the finishing touch, it was Abdul Samad who changed the tempo of the contest. Walking in with the chase delicately poised, he injected urgency and confidence. Samad took on Shahbaz Ahmed without hesitation, smashing two towering sixes — one over long-on and another over deep extra cover — to wrest momentum firmly in J&K’s favour.

His counterattack forced Bengal onto the back foot. The pressure visibly shifted, and suddenly the target looked far less daunting. Samad’s unbeaten 30 in the second innings followed his vital 82 in the first, underlining his influence across both phases of the match.

Auqib Nabi Dar-led bowling attack lay the foundation

The victory was built on disciplined bowling. After Bengal posted 328 in their first innings, powered by Sudip Kumar Gharami’s 146 and a steady 49 from skipper Abhimanyu Easwaran, J&K stayed within touching distance thanks to Auqib Nabi Dar’s superb 5/87.

In reply, J&K posted 302, with Samad’s 82 and captain Paras Dogra’s composed 58 anchoring the innings. However, Bengal’s second innings collapse proved decisive. Bundled out for just 99, they faltered under sustained pressure from Dar (4/36) and Sunil Kumar (4/27).

Though Mohammed Shami’s remarkable 8/90 in J&K’s first innings kept Bengal competitive, the modest target of 126 in the fourth innings always felt within reach for a determined batting unit.

Also WATCH: Mohammed Shami castles Shubham Pundir with a peach in Bengal vs Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy semifinal

A red-letter day in J&K cricket

Chasing 126, J&K finished at 126/4, with Vanshaj’s fluent 43 ensuring there were no final hiccups. As the winning runs were struck, the significance of the moment sank in. For a side that has often battled limited resources and tough circumstances, reaching the Ranji Trophy final represents belief rewarded. Captain Dogra, who has been instrumental both with the bat and in leadership, marshalled his troops superbly throughout the semifinal. The team’s blend of youth and experience has finally clicked at the highest stage of India’s domestic circuit.

The celebrations in Kalyani were only a glimpse of what awaits back home. Jammu and Kashmir’s historic run has inspired fans across the region, proving that perseverance and fearless cricket can bridge any gap.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Fans react as KL Rahul and Smaran Ravichandran chase down 325 as Karnataka knock Mumbai out to reach Ranji Trophy semi-finals

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.

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