18 February 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Jammu & Kashmir scripted history in Indian domestic cricket as they booked a place in their maiden Ranji Trophy final, riding on stellar performances from Fazil Nabi and Abdul Samad. The landmark achievement came after a commanding display in the semi-final, where J&K outplayed their opponents with a combination of disciplined bowling, resilient batting, and remarkable composure under pressure.
For a team that has steadily risen through the ranks of Indian domestic cricket, this qualification marks a defining moment. Jammu & Kashmir, once considered underdogs in the elite Ranji Trophy circuit, now stand just one step away from lifting the most prestigious title in India’s domestic red-ball competition.
Nabi Sets the Tone with the Ball
Veteran all-rounder Fazil Nabi once again proved why he remains the backbone of the J&K side. Delivering a probing spell in the crucial phase of the match, Nabi dismantled the opposition batting lineup with accuracy and movement, ensuring J&K stayed firmly in control.
Bowling with relentless discipline, Nabi picked up key wickets at regular intervals, preventing any significant partnerships from developing. His ability to exploit early movement and maintain pressure created opportunities for bowlers at the other end, resulting in a collective bowling effort that restricted the opposition to a manageable total.
Cricket analysts noted that Nabi’s experience in high-pressure domestic games played a crucial role in J&K’s success. “He understands conditions exceptionally well and knows how to break partnerships,” said a former Ranji player tracking the match.
Samad’s Gritty Knock Under Pressure
While the bowlers laid the foundation, it was Abdul Samad’s calm and composed batting that ultimately steered J&K towards the historic final. Walking in at a tense moment with the match finely balanced, Samad showcased maturity beyond his years, anchoring the innings when early wickets threatened to derail the chase.
Known for his aggressive stroke play in white-ball cricket, Samad adapted seamlessly to the demands of the longer format. He displayed patience, solid defence, and timely aggression—qualities that kept the scoreboard ticking while minimizing risks.
His partnership-building ability stood out, as he guided the lower middle order and ensured J&K did not lose momentum. Samad’s knock was widely praised for its temperament, with experts calling it one of his finest red-ball performances.
Collective Team Effort Shines
Apart from Nabi and Samad, the Jammu & Kashmir team delivered a well-rounded performance. The bowling unit backed up Nabi admirably, maintaining tight lines and capitalizing on pressure situations. Fielding standards were also noticeably sharp, reflecting the team’s growing professionalism and belief.
Captaincy decisions played a significant role in the victory, with smart bowling changes and aggressive field placements keeping the opposition on the back foot. The team’s confidence has grown match by match, and the semi-final performance was a culmination of that upward trajectory.
A Historic Moment for Jammu & Kashmir Cricket
Reaching the Ranji Trophy final is more than just a sporting milestone for Jammu & Kashmir—it represents years of development, resilience, and perseverance in the face of logistical and infrastructural challenges.
Over the last decade, J&K cricket has produced several players who have gone on to represent India at various levels. The team’s journey to the final highlights the increasing competitiveness of domestic cricket and the depth of talent emerging from non-traditional cricketing regions.
“This achievement will inspire a new generation of cricketers in the region,” said a J&K Cricket Association official. “It shows that with the right support and belief, anything is possible.”
Eyes on the Ranji Trophy Final
As Jammu & Kashmir prepare for their maiden Ranji Trophy final, expectations and excitement are running high. The team will face a formidable opponent, but their recent performances suggest they are more than capable of rising to the occasion.
With experienced campaigners like Nabi providing stability and young stars like Samad delivering under pressure, J&K have the perfect blend of youth and experience. Win or lose, their journey to the final has already etched their name into Ranji Trophy history.
The final now presents an opportunity not just to compete, but to dream big—and perhaps bring home a title that once seemed unimaginable.
Summary
Fazil Nabi’s incisive bowling and Abdul Samad’s composed batting helped Jammu & Kashmir defeat their opponents and reach their first-ever Ranji Trophy final, marking a historic moment in Indian domestic cricket.