Srinagar, Feb 9, KNT: Jammu and Kashmir created history on Monday by qualifying for the semifinals of the Ranji Trophy for the first time, defeating former champions Madhya Pradesh by 56 runs in a quarterfinal marked by a dominant bowling display.
The landmark victory was powered by a career-best performance from fast bowler Auqib Nabi, who finished with a remarkable match haul of 12 wickets. Chasing a target of 291, Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 234, unable to withstand sustained pressure from the J&K bowling attack.
Auqib followed his first-innings spell of 7 for 40 with another incisive effort, claiming 5 for 70 in the second innings to dismantle the Madhya Pradesh batting line-up. His consistency and control proved decisive on a pitch that offered assistance to disciplined bowling.
Resuming the final day at 84 for 5, Madhya Pradesh struggled to build momentum. Auqib struck early, removing Ramveer Gurjar, and later broke the backbone of the chase by ending Saransh Jain’s resistance. Jain top-scored for Madhya Pradesh with a fighting 64, while India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer failed to convert his start and was dismissed early in the day.
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Tailender Aryan Pandey added some late runs, but the outcome was largely sealed as J&K bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq played a crucial supporting role, finishing with three wickets for 49 runs.
The win marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir, who are competing in India’s premier domestic tournament for the 67th year. The team had last reached the knockout stage six years ago but had never advanced beyond the quarterfinals until now.
Jammu and Kashmir will face the winner of the quarterfinal between Andhra and Bengal in the semifinals. The other semifinal will be contested between Uttarakhand and Karnataka. [KNT]
