How Did Aaqib Dar's Century Lead J&K to a Thrilling Win Over Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26?
Synopsis
Witness the remarkable journey of Aaqib Dar as he leads Jammu and Kashmir to a stunning three-wicket victory over Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. His unbeaten century not only changes the game but also cements his status in domestic cricket. Don't miss this thrilling comeback story!
Key Takeaways
Aaqib Dar scored an unbeaten 114 runs.
Jammu and Kashmir chased down a target of 251 runs.
Dar and Sharma set a record partnership of 182 runs.
Hyderabad struggled with fielding, dropping crucial catches.
This match showcased the unpredictability of cricket.
Rajkot, Jan 8 (NationPress) Aaqib Dar delivered an extraordinary unbeaten century, turning the tide dramatically as Jammu and Kashmir clinched a breathtaking three-wicket victory against Hyderabad in their concluding Group B match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 at Niranjan Shah Stadium Ground C in Rajkot on Thursday.
In pursuit of a formidable target, J&K executed a miraculous comeback from a dire 90/7 situation, with Dar standing out by scoring a phenomenal unbeaten 114 runs off just 82 deliveries, which included 10 fours and 7 sixes. He formed a record-breaking, unbroken partnership of 182 runs for the eighth wicket alongside Vanshaj Sharma, who remained not out on 69, steering Jammu and Kashmir to triumph with 13 balls to spare.
Hyderabad initially seemed to have the upper hand during the chase, as skipper C.V. Milind and Mohammed Siraj effectively utilized the pace and bounce. The short-ball tactic proved successful, with both bowlers claiming two wickets each, placing Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in a troublesome position.
Nonetheless, Dar countered the mounting pressure with calculated aggression, particularly targeting the spinners, utilizing his reach and timing to clear the boundaries on the midwicket and long-on sides. As their partnership flourished, Hyderabad struggled to regain control, compounded by three dropped catches. Dar reached his first-ever List A hundred in just 65 balls, showcasing his fighting spirit.
Prior to this, Hyderabad had set a challenging target after opting to bat first. Rahul Singh Gahlaut sparked the innings with a swift 56 off 36 balls, while Aman Rao contributed a steady 60. K. Nitesh Reddy rounded off the innings with an unbeaten 54, helping Hyderabad complete their full 50 overs while surpassing the 250-run mark.
The bowlers from Jammu and Kashmir were hindered by fielding errors, missing several opportunities, but Dar’s exceptional batting ensured these mistakes didn't cost them the game.
Dar’s remarkable innings not only salvaged Jammu and Kashmir from impending defeat but also represented one of the tournament's most unforgettable comebacks, highlighting his rising prominence in the domestic cricket landscape.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of Aaqib Dar's performance in this match. It not only reflects his individual talent but also serves as an inspirational narrative for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. Such comebacks showcase the unpredictable nature of cricket and the determination of young talent in our domestic leagues.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the match's final score?
Jammu and Kashmir won the match with a score of 253/7 against Hyderabad's 250.
Who were the key players in the match?
Aaqib Dar was the standout performer with his century, while Vanshaj Sharma played a crucial role in the partnership.
What did Hyderabad score?
Hyderabad posted a total of 250 runs.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Niranjan Shah Stadium Ground C in Rajkot.
What does this victory mean for Jammu and Kashmir cricket?
This victory highlights the potential and resilience of Jammu and Kashmir's cricket team in competitive scenarios.
