Ranji Trophy: Sachin Tendulkar Celebrates J&K’s Transformation into Champions
Synopsis
Sachin Tendulkar celebrates Jammu & Kashmir's incredible journey in the Ranji Trophy, emphasizing their remarkable transformation from supporting players to champions. Their historic win marks a significant moment in domestic cricket.
Key Takeaways
Jammu & Kashmir won their first Ranji Trophy title.
Sachin Tendulkar praised their journey as inspiring.
Key performances included Shubham Pundir and Auqib Nabi Dar .
The final match ended in a draw, awarding victory due to first-innings lead.
This achievement symbolizes resilience in domestic cricket.
New Delhi, Feb 28 (NationPress) Renowned former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar praised the remarkable achievement of Jammu & Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26, describing their journey as "extraordinary" and a testament to unwavering consistency and resilience in domestic cricket.
After their historic win against the eight-time champions Karnataka, Tendulkar shared his sentiments regarding the emotional and symbolic importance of this victory for a region that has significantly contributed to Indian cricket with its renowned willow bats.
“The famous Kashmir willows have been part of many champions' gear. Witnessing Jammu & Kashmir's evolution from a supporter of champions to champions themselves is truly extraordinary,” Tendulkar expressed on X, previously known as Twitter.
J&K made history by winning their first-ever Ranji Trophy title, having established a significant first-innings lead and drawing the final against Karnataka in Hubballi. The visiting team scored an impressive 584 in their first innings, bolstered by a century from Shubham Pundir and solid contributions from the batting lineup. Their bowlers, spearheaded by the tournament's leading wicket-taker Auqib Nabi Dar, who took five wickets, dismissed Karnataka for 293, securing a crucial advantage.
J&K maintained their dominance in the second innings, highlighted by Qamran Iqbal's outstanding 160 and Sahil Lotra's maiden first-class century, guiding the team to 342/4 before captain Paras Dogra declared. With a lead far exceeding what Karnataka could chase and time dwindling, the match concluded in a draw, awarding Jammu & Kashmir a momentous victory due to their commanding first-innings performance.
Tendulkar noted that this victory was not a mere coincidence but the result of persistent excellence throughout the season. “The season was characterized by consistency, resilience, and sustained excellence. Auqib Nabi's contribution with the ball was particularly noteworthy in a demanding tournament,” he stated.
Auqib played a pivotal role in J&K's successful campaign, consistently delivering vital spells and match-defining performances, particularly in the final.
Tendulkar further emphasized the broader significance of this accomplishment, asserting its inspirational potential for the domestic cricket scene and future generations of cricketers. “This is a historic moment for the team, coaches, and support staff. Journeys like this exemplify the beauty of domestic cricket,” he concluded.
Point of View
Jammu & Kashmir's victory in the Ranji Trophy signifies not only a sporting achievement but also a powerful narrative of resilience and transformation. This moment is pivotal for the region and serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations of cricketers.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significant achievement for Jammu & Kashmir in 2025-26?
Jammu & Kashmir won their first-ever Ranji Trophy title, marking a historic moment in their cricketing journey.
Who praised Jammu & Kashmir's victory?
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar praised Jammu & Kashmir's remarkable journey and victory in the Ranji Trophy.
What was the score of Jammu & Kashmir in the final?
Jammu & Kashmir scored 584 in their first innings during the final against Karnataka.
Who was the standout player for Jammu & Kashmir?
Auqib Nabi Dar was a standout player, leading the bowling attack with significant performances throughout the tournament.
What did Tendulkar say about Jammu & Kashmir's journey?
Tendulkar described their journey as beautiful, highlighting their transformation from enablers of champions to champions themselves.
