Historic feat: Jammu and Kashmir beat Delhi in Ranji Trophy for first time in 65 years

Dubai: Jammu and Kashmir’s domestic cricket has been on a remarkable rise in recent years, and on Tuesday, the team etched its name in history with a milestone victory. They secured their first-ever Ranji Trophy win over Delhi, triumphing by seven wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium — their maiden success against the side in 65 years.

The win, J&K’s second outright victory of the season, propelled them to second place in the Elite Group D standings, just behind Mumbai.

Electing to bowl first, pacer Auqib Nabi spearheaded J&K’s attack with a sensational spell of 5 for 35, while Vanshaj Sharma (2/57) and Abid Mushtaq (2/30) provided crucial support as Delhi were bowled out for 211 in their opening innings.

In response, J&K delivered a strong batting performance. Despite early setbacks, skipper Paras Dogra anchored the innings with a brilliant 106, complemented by Abdul Samad’s fluent 85 and Kanhaiya Wadhawan’s handy 47, helping the visitors post 310 and take a 99-run lead.

Delhi fought back in their second innings, reaching 267/5 on the back of captain Ayush Badoni’s quickfire 72 and Ayush Doseja’s 62. However, a dramatic late collapse saw them lose their last five wickets for just 10 runs, ending on 277 all out. Left-arm spinner Vanshaj Sharma was the chief destroyer with 6 for 68, his third five-wicket haul in just four matches, setting J&K a target of 179.

On the final day, Qamran Iqbal rose to the occasion with a magnificent unbeaten 133, steering J&K to 179/3 and sealing a historic first win over Delhi in 43 Ranji Trophy meetings.