Srinagar/Jammu, Feb 27 (NationPress) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is heading to Hubballi, Karnataka, to witness a momentous cricket match as the J&K cricket team continues to dominate Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy finals.

With a remarkable lead of 291 runs over Karnataka in their first innings, J&K has made it to the Ranji finals.

Residents across Srinagar and Jammu have been keenly observing their team’s progress, and the joy on their faces reflects that this achievement transcends mere sport.

“I may not have played or followed cricket closely, but when my grandson shared the news of J&K reaching the Ranji Trophy finals, I felt immense pride. I eagerly await our triumph in the final game,” expressed Abdul Rashid (74), a resident of Old City Srinagar.

Others, familiar with the sport, share a similar enthusiasm, rooted in their understanding of the game.

“I have watched our players since my engineering college days. We had talented batsmen like Rouf and skilled bowlers like Qayoom in the past, but we lacked the essential training, practice, and encouragement,” stated Khwaja Nisar Hussain, a retired chief engineer.

The J&K cricket team’s historic entry into the Ranji Trophy finals for the first time in 67 years has received widespread acclaim from political leaders, who view it as a triumph for the spirit of the region and a step towards normalization.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated the team during a session in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, emphasizing that the victory belongs to the entire team and its support staff.

Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha described the achievement as a ‘new golden chapter’ in J&K's sporting history, commending the team’s determination and bravery.

PDP leader Iltija Mufti congratulated the team while encouraging youth to engage in sports and steer clear of drug abuse, criticizing the local sports infrastructure.

BJP Leader Altaf Thakur hailed the accomplishment as evidence of improved infrastructure and peace in the area, urging society to rally behind the players.

The J&K Legislative Assembly celebrated this achievement, with Congress leader Nizam Ud Din Bhat and others recognizing this historic milestone.

MLA Tanvir Sadiq, spokesperson for the ruling NC, emphasized the importance of keeping politics separate from sports.

He stated that this event should be seen as a victory for all citizens.

The J&K Ranji team, captained by Paras Dogra and coached by Ajay Sharma, is on the verge of victory in the final match, leading Karnataka by 291 runs in the first innings.