Jammu and Kashmir are poised to lift their first Ranji Trophy title against Karnataka, ending a wait of nearly 67 years. J&K are set to claim their maiden title even if the match ends in a draw on Saturday, thanks to key existing rules.
Last year, the same rule denied J&K a semi-final spot when the match was awarded to the opponent based on first-innings lead. However, this rule — which cost them earlier — will now prove decisive in their favour in this historic final.
After posting a massive 584 in their first innings—built on disciplined batting, key partnerships and gritty lower-order contributions—J&K seized control with the ball, dismissing Karnataka’s entire batting line-up for 293 and securing a first-innings lead of 291 runs.
Their bowling, led by Aquib Nabi’s fiery spell, dismantled Karnataka’s star-studded line-up, reducing them to early trouble and eventually bowling them out cheaply. Despite Karnataka’s fightback through Mayank Agarwal’s brilliant century, the deficit proved too much for the hosts.
J&K, while in a commanding position, did not enforce the follow-on — mindful of the rule — and captain Paras Dogra opted to extend the lead. The overall lead reached 477 runs at the close of Day 4.
Opener Qamran Iqbal, dismissed cheaply in the first innings, stood firm with an unbeaten 116 off 221 deliveries, giving the visitors an unassailable lead by the end of the first session on Day 5. The lead has now extended to 553 at the loss of 4 wickets.
What does the rules say?
- Under current Ranji Trophy final rules, a winner must be declared, as the title cannot be shared (unlike group matches).
- The rule states that the team with the first-innings lead must be declared the winner and crowned champions.
- This rewards consistent performance across the marathon contest, where weather, pitch wear or time can prevent a decisive finish.
- The underdogs have turned the final into their story of dominance, proving that big totals and sharp bowling win championships — even in drawn epics.
Also read: Omar heads to Hubbali to cheer J&K team in Ranji trophy finals
Follow us
