It was a moment that will be remembered for generations in the valley. Jammu and Kashmir entered their first attack ranji trophy Final with a spectacular win by six wickets Bengal Emotional celebrations are taking place in Kalyani, on and off the field. The win in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 semi-finals was an important moment for a team that has consistently built belief, resilience and character over the years.
Abdul Samad changed the direction of Jammu and Kashmir
Just need a few runs, Vansh Sharma Made sure there would be no late drama. Stepping back to make space, he launched Mukesh Kumar Hit a sky-high six straight over his head to chase down the target in style. The ball going into the stands was a sign of uncontrolled joy.
Teammates sprinted toward the middle, arms raised, faces lit up with disbelief and pride. Players hugged, some got down on their knees, and soon the entire team was celebrating. In heart-touching scenes, the head coach was lifted onto the shoulders of the players โ a symbolic gesture of the campaign built on unity and fearless cricket. It was more than just a victory; It was a statement.
While Descendant finalized, it was Abdul Samad Which changed the course of the competition. He exuded urgency and confidence, moving in a very composed manner to set up the chase. Samad took charge Shahbaz Ahmed Without any hesitation, he hit two sky-high sixes – one over long-on and the other over deep extra cover – to swing the momentum firmly in J&K’s favour.
Their counterattack forced Bengal to come on the backfoot. The pressure clearly changed, and suddenly the goal seemed much less challenging. His crucial 82 in the first innings was followed by Samad’s unbeaten 30 in the second innings which underlined his influence in both phases of the match.
The foundation of the Auqib Nabi Dar-led bowling attack was laid
This victory was based on disciplined bowling. After this Bengal scored 328 runs in its first innings. Sudeep Kumar Gharami146 and 49 consecutive runs from the captain Abhimanyu EaswaranJammu and Kashmir remained within touching distance thanks Auqib Nabi DarExcellent 5/87.
In reply, J&K scored 302 runs with the help of Samad and captain’s 82 runs. Paras DograHe started the innings and scored 58 runs. However, Bengal’s second innings collapse proved decisive. After being bowled out for only 99 runs, they faltered under sustained pressure from Dar (4/36) Sunil Kumar (4/27).
Although Mohammed ShamiWhile J&K’s remarkable 8/90 in the first innings kept Bengal competitive, the modest target of 126 in the fourth innings always felt within reach of a determined batting unit.
See also: Mohammed Shami dismisses Shubham Pundir in Bengal vs Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy semi-final
An important day in Jammu and Kashmir cricket
Chasing 126, J&K finished at 126/4, with Deschanel’s fluent 43 ensuring there were no final hurdles. As soon as the winning runs were scored, the importance of that moment was understood. For a team that has often struggled with limited resources and difficult conditions, reaching the Ranji Trophy final represents rewarding confidence. Captain Dogra, who has played a vital role both with the bat and leadership, led his troops brilliantly throughout the semi-final. The team’s blend of youth and experience has finally reached the highest level of India’s domestic circuit.
The celebration in Kalyani was just a glimpse of what was to happen in the house. Jammu and Kashmir’s historic performance has inspired fans across the region, proving that perseverance and fearless cricket can bridge any gap.
Here’s how fans reacted:
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Jammu and Kashmir created history, defeated Bengal by 7 wickets and booked their ticket #RanjiTrophy First time final ๐ซก
Scorecard โถ๏ธ https://t.co/QXyCuRHJ6e@IDFCFIRSTBANK pic.twitter.com/VBKPD9I9mX
– BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) 18 February 2026
Congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on their spectacular win in the Ranji Trophy semi-finals! You have written a new golden chapter in the sports history of Jammu and Kashmir. The entire UT is proud of your exceptional performance. May you continue this winning streak and make Jammu and Kashmir proud.
– LG Jammu and Kashmir Office (@OfficeOfLGJandK) 18 February 2026
History was made! Jammu and Kashmir reached Ranji Trophy final for the first time
It feels very proud to see that these boys are taking Jammu and Kashmir cricket to new heights.
you beautiful, @ABDULSAMAD___1 What a knock! ๐ pic.twitter.com/TC61WwWNuoโ Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) 18 February 2026
Jammu and Kashmir is making it #RanjiTrophy The final feels like a dream come true. We have no infrastructure, only a few grounds in the whole of Jammu and Kashmir, no academies, no professional coaches, but there is strong will. And now trust too. So, very happy for this team. Just one step away from lifting the trophy.
– Mohsin Kamal (@64MohsinKamal) 18 February 2026
After 44 years…
What a victory! finals on
go to jammu and kashmir @BCCIdomestic– Raees Mohammad Bhat (@bhatray) 18 February 2026
Jammu and Kashmir cricket team reaching the Ranji Trophy final is certainly a defining moment for BCCI domestic cricket. In the last few years, Jammu and Kashmir has defeated strong teams like Mumbai. Look forward to a great final.
– Ratnakar Shetty (@RatnakarShetty6) 18 February 2026
J&K defeated Bengal to enter the Ranji Trophy final for the first time. Hardly considered a serious contender, this brilliant performance highlights the talent, ambition and commitment of the players ๐๐
– Cricketwala (@cricketwala) 18 February 2026
Hearty congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir cricket team!
Jammu and Kashmir cricket team has created history by qualifying for the Ranji Trophy finals, writing a glorious and golden chapter in the sporting journey of our Union Territory. This fantastic achievement is proof of this… pic.twitter.com/PetATZRNG5
– Bhaijaan Imtiaz Chasti (@bonipan) 18 February 2026
Defeat Delhi in Delhi
Madhya Pradesh in Madhya Pradesh
Now Bengal in BengalJammu and Kashmir’s performance in this season of Ranji Trophy has been excellent.
They have reached the Ranji Trophy final for the first time.
Jammu and Kashmir has created a wonderful culture and they know how to win.
Auqib Nabi…
โ Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) 18 February 2026
Jammu and Kashmir cricket team created history. By defeating Bengal in the semi-final match, Jammu and Kashmir team has reached the final of Ranji Trophy for the first time.
Great teamwork boys!!!!
Hard work always pays off. โบ๏ธโ๏ธโ@OmarAbdullah @JKNC_ pic.twitter.com/ArC4qU6Hr8– Yashu Rachpal Singh (@ThYashuSingh) 18 February 2026
Entering the final for the first time for Jammu and Kashmir in Ranji Trophy. What an unprecedented achievement this is. Remember, 38 teams compete in this tournament. Salute Jammu and Kashmir. Good luck with the big dance. Hopefully the coaches will get proper rewards and opportunities on the big stages.
– Prasanna (@prasannalara) 18 February 2026
From its Ranji debut in 1959-60 to its first win in 81-82, Jammu and Kashmir cricket has come a long journey of patience and perseverance.
Sixty-six years later, they stand in the Ranji Trophy final, a moment made of resilience, belief and history in the making.#JKCA#bcci #jk pic.twitter.com/2aQFISiYAK– Kashmir๐ (@K_aShMi_R) 18 February 2026
“Hearty congratulations to the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team and the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association on qualifying for the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in history! ๐ A proud moment for the state. Best wishes for the final!”
– Bhat Muneeb (@bhatMun86531164) 18 February 2026
Hearty congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir Ranji team for creating history by reaching the Ranji Trophy final! ๐๐ฅ
This unprecedented achievement reflects your tireless hard work, steadfast determination and indomitable struggle. You have inspired millions of people. pic.twitter.com/74Ws9jdwQ3– Faheem Tak (@FaheemTak) 18 February 2026
Hearty congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for creating history by reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time. Your dedication, determination and fighting spirit have made the entire region proud. Good luck in the finals!
– Office of the Deputy Chief Minister Jammu and Kashmir (@OfficeofDYCMJK) 18 February 2026
J&K team created history. After waiting for 66 years, finally reached the Ranji Trophy final for the first time. Well done Paras and team. I will not forget the man Auqib Nabi who made this possible. As the saying goes, bowlers can win your tournament.
Let’s celebrate ๐ฅณ GIFT. #RanjiTrophy2026 pic.twitter.com/vY53VYUk82– RJ Speaks๐๏ธ๐ (@Mir_Ikhlaq786) 18 February 2026
Jammu and Kashmir in Ranji Trophy final…!!
Historic moment for Jammu and Kashmir… first ever final..!!
What a team…what a vengeance
.. Sadly I don’t see any post for Jammu and Kashmir #RanjiTrophy2026– ๐ฎ๐ณ BLACKLISTED ๐ฉ (@BlackLstd_Beast) 18 February 2026
Auqib Nabi once again in Ranji Trophy semi-finals POTM๐ฅ๐โค๏ธ
-Jammu-Kashmir and win the final for yourself, what a leader Dogra is. So very grounded, even the coaches of Jammu and Kashmir pic.twitter.com/A1NcCL024u
– stubbsyยณโฐ (@cinha7605) 18 February 2026
believe the hype. Jammu and Kashmir has come to the biggest stage of domestic cricket.
History was created. Destiny claimed.
Jammu and Kashmir heading towards Ranji Trophy final@JKSportsCouncil @jkca_srinagar– Zaroo (@RJ_Zaroo) 18 February 2026
