Jammu and Kashmir cricket team tightened their grip on the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 final against Karnataka cricket team, ending the penultimate day at 186/4 in their second innings and extending their overall lead to a massive 477 runs.
Opener Qamran Iqbal remained unbeaten on 94, while Sahil Lotra was at the crease on 16, putting J&K in a commanding position heading into the final day.
J&K Bowlers Set the Tone
Earlier, Jammu and Kashmir’s bowlers dismantled Karnataka for 293 in the first innings.
- Auqib Nabi Dar starred once again, claiming a five-wicket haul.
- Sunil Kumar and Yudhvir Singh Charak picked up two wickets each.
- Sahil Lotra chipped in with one.
For Karnataka, captain Mayank Agarwal stood tall with a magnificent 160. However, he received little support from the rest of the batting line-up, resulting in Karnataka conceding a crucial first-innings lead.
Iqbal’s Lucky Escape and On-Field Tension
Despite their dominance, there was drama in the middle.
In the 11th over of the second innings, Iqbal survived a close scare when Vidyadhar Patil delivered a superb ball that brushed the stump. However, the bail did not dislodge, sparing the batter when he was on 14. Iqbal capitalised on the reprieve and went on to register a half-century, eventually moving into the 90s.
According to Law 29.1 of the MCC Laws of Cricket, a batter can only be adjudged bowled if the bail is completely dislodged from the stumps.
Tempers also flared briefly when Vijaykumar Vyshak engaged in a heated exchange with Iqbal, testing him with sharp short deliveries and verbal sledging. Iqbal, however, maintained his composure and continued to anchor the innings.
What Happens If the Final Ends in a Draw?
If the match ends in a draw, Jammu and Kashmir will be crowned champions by virtue of their first-innings lead.
With a towering advantage and one day remaining, J&K are firmly in control and on the brink of a historic Ranji Trophy triumph.
