Ranji Trophy – Jammu and Kashmir Opt to Bat in Historic Final Clash
Ranji Trophy – Jammu and Kashmir won the toss and chose to bat first against eight-time champions Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy final at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground on Tuesday. The summit clash marks a significant milestone for the northern side, which has reached the final for the first time in its history.
A First-Time Final for Jammu and Kashmir
For Jammu and Kashmir, this season has already been one for the record books. The team, led by Paras Dogra, is within touching distance of a maiden Ranji Trophy title. The last side to lift the trophy for the first time was Madhya Pradesh during the 2021–22 season, and Jammu and Kashmir now have the opportunity to script a similar chapter.
Their journey to the final has been defined by resilience and consistency. The team’s only setback came in October when they suffered a narrow 35-run defeat against Mumbai. Since that match, they have regrouped impressively, producing steady performances that carried them through the knockout rounds.
The decision to bat first in the final reflects the confidence the side has developed over the course of the campaign. With conditions expected to favor disciplined batting early on, Jammu and Kashmir will aim to put up a competitive total and apply scoreboard pressure on their experienced opponents.
Karnataka’s Road Marked by Setbacks and Revival
Karnataka, captained by Devdutt Padikkal, entered the tournament as one of the strong contenders but faced a challenging path to the final. Before the mid-season break for white-ball cricket, they appeared firmly in control of their campaign. However, momentum shifted after the restart when they suffered a heavy defeat to Madhya Pradesh.
That loss complicated their qualification prospects. Weather interruptions and determined resistance from Punjab further tightened the race, leaving Karnataka with limited room for mistakes in the closing stages of the league phase.
At a crucial moment, newly appointed captain Padikkal delivered under pressure. His unbeaten 120 in a must-win scenario proved decisive, guiding Karnataka into the quarterfinals as fading daylight added drama to the contest. The innings not only secured progression but also restored belief within the squad.
Building on that turnaround, Karnataka produced commanding performances in the knockout rounds. A convincing win over Mumbai in the quarterfinals was followed by a dominant display against Uttarakhand in the semifinals. Those victories ensured their place in the final and the advantage of playing at home in Hubli.
The eight-time champions are now seeking their first Ranji Trophy title in more than a decade, adding further significance to the contest.
Teams Announced for the Final
Jammu and Kashmir have fielded a balanced combination for the title clash. Paras Dogra leads the side, with Qamran Iqbal, Yawer Hassan, Shubham Singh Pundir, and Abdul Samad forming the core of the batting order. Kanhaiya Wadhawan takes on wicketkeeping duties, while the bowling responsibilities rest with Abid Mushtaq, Auqib Nabi, Yudhvir Singh, Sahil Lotra, and Sunil Kumar.
Karnataka’s lineup features experienced campaigners and emerging talent. KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal strengthen the top order, alongside captain Devdutt Padikkal and Karun Nair. Smaran Ravichandran and Shreyas Gopal add depth, with Kruthik Krishna behind the stumps. The pace attack includes Vidyadhar Patil, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Shikhar Shetty, and Prasidh Krishna.
A Final with History at Stake
With Jammu and Kashmir chasing a first-ever title and Karnataka aiming to reclaim past glory, the Ranji Trophy final promises a compelling contest. The opening day’s decision to bat sets the stage for a tactical battle, where patience and execution will be critical.
As play unfolds at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground, both teams carry contrasting narratives — one seeking to create history and the other determined to reaffirm its legacy in Indian domestic cricket.