Hubli, Feb 26 (NationPress) A remarkable century by Shubham Pundir alongside significant contributions from Yawer Hassan, captain Paras Dogra, Abdul Samad, Kanhaiya Wadhawan, and Sahil Lotra propelled Jammu and Kashmir to a formidable first-innings total of 584 against Karnataka on the third morning of the Ranji Trophy final held at the Hubli Cricket Ground on Thursday.

Continuing from an overnight score of 527/6, Jammu and Kashmir solidified their position with valuable contributions from the lower order. Sahil Lotra led the way with a top score of 72, while Yudhvir Singh Charak added a quick 30 before the innings concluded in the 174th over.

Prasidh Krishna, the Karnataka pacer, was the standout bowler with an impressive five-wicket haul, although he received minimal support from a pitch that heavily favored the batters.

The foundation for Jammu and Kashmir’s dominance was established on Day 1 after opting to bat first. Opener Yawer Hassan set the pace with a fluent 88, forming a crucial partnership with Pundir, who made history by becoming the first batter from Jammu and Kashmir to score a century in a Ranji Trophy final with a patient 121. His performance was pivotal in keeping Karnataka under pressure throughout the match.

Despite Karnataka's early breakthroughs on Day 2, removing Pundir and Abdul Samad, Dogra stepped in to stabilize the innings. The seasoned skipper showed poise, scoring a vital 50 off 150 balls while guiding the middle order through a challenging phase. His partnership with Kanhaiya Wadhawan, who contributed a stylish 70, helped Jammu and Kashmir surpass the 450-run mark, further solidifying their grip on the final.

The lower order ensured that Karnataka could not gain any late momentum. Lotra played a crucial role with a thoughtful 72, supported by Abid Mushtaq with 28 and Yudhvir adding useful runs, pushing the total past 580. The consistent partnerships and multiple fifty-plus scores throughout the innings effectively stifled any sustained pressure from Karnataka.

Despite Prasidh Krishna’s commendable five-wicket haul and diligent efforts from the Karnataka bowlers, the lack of assistance from the pitch hindered their ability to control the flow of runs. With such an imposing first-innings total, Jammu and Kashmir has put themselves in a commanding position, leaving Karnataka with a daunting task to match their score and remain competitive for the Ranji Trophy title.

Brief Scores: Jammu & Kashmir 584 (Shubham Pundir 121, Yawer Hassan 88, Sahil Lotra 72, Kanhaiya Wadhawan 70, Paras Dogra 70; Prasidh Krishna 5-98) vs Karnataka.