Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, former coaches, and cricketing legends have showered praise on the J&K cricket team for their historic semi-final victory in the 2026 Ranji Trophy.
In a post on X, Manoj Sinha wrote, “Congratulations to the J&K-YK cricket team on their magnificent victory in the Ranji Trophy semi-final! You have etched a new golden chapter in the sporting history of J&K. The entire UT is proud of your extraordinary performance. May J&K continue this winning momentum and bring glory to J&K.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the victory reflected the hard work, discipline, and teamwork of the players, coaches, and support staff.
He added, “I extend heartfelt congratulations to the entire Jammu and Kashmir team and hope the day is not far when we will see players from Jammu and Kashmir playing a very important role in the national team.”
J&K Sports Minister Satish Sharma posted on X, “Congratulations, Jai Hind, and Jai Jammu and Kashmir for the historic win!!!! Semi-Finals of the Ranji Trophy. Proud of you guys.”
Former Indian cricketing greats and World Cup winners also lauded the team, with some noting that the nationalisation of cricket in India has enabled talent from the remotest areas to pursue their dreams and succeed.
Former J&K coach and mentor Irfan Pathan particularly praised Aqib Nabi and Abdul Samad for their consistent performances against top teams in the Ranji circuit this year.
He said, “J&K has arrived; it's time that people take notice of the young boys and their performances in domestic cricket. The day is not far away when Aqib will be seen playing for the Indian team.”
The victory belongs to the entire population of Jammu and Kashmir, according to JKCA president Brig. Anil Gupta, along with administrators Vidya Bhaskar, CAC members Abdul Qayoom, Vijay Sharma, and Meenu Singh Slathia, selectors Sarabjeet Singh, Dhruv Mahajan, and Arshad Bhat, and the coaching staff led by Ajay Sharma.
On Wednesday, Jammu and Kashmir defeated West Bengal by 6 wickets, after the visitors had restricted the hosts to 99 runs and J&K chased the target in 34.4 overs.
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