Jammu and Kashmir Eye Historic Maiden Title as They Face Karnataka in Ranji Trophy Final

Feb 2026 : Jammu and Kashmir are on the brink of scripting one of the most remarkable stories in Indian domestic cricket as they prepare to take on eight-time champions Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy final, beginning Tuesday. The clash pits an underdog chasing a maiden title against a traditional powerhouse seeking to reclaim past glory.

Led by Paras Dogra, Jammu and Kashmir have enjoyed a dream run this season. Their only setback came early, with a 35-run defeat to Mumbai in October. Since then, the side has shown resilience and belief, producing a string of impressive performances to reach the summit clash. Victories away from home against Delhi in Delhi, Madhya Pradesh in Indore, and Bengal in Kalyani underline their growing maturity and competitive edge.

For Jammu and Kashmir, the final represents more than just a shot at silverware. A title win would be transformative, potentially altering the trajectory of cricket in the region and inspiring a new generation of players. Their campaign has been built on discipline, hunger, and standout individual performances, none more significant than those of pace spearhead Auqib Nabi.

Karnataka, captained by Devdutt Padikkal, enter the final as firm favourites. The southern giants have dominated proceedings throughout the tournament and were particularly ruthless in the semi-final, piling up 736 and 323 runs in their two innings against Uttarakhand. The depth and quality of their batting lineup make them a daunting opponent in a five-day final.

The presence of seasoned campaigners such as K. L. Rahul, Karun Nair, and Padikkal himself has given Karnataka a formidable top and middle order. Padikkal, who has been nursing a hand injury, is expected to recover in time for the final, adding further strength to an already imposing lineup. Karnataka will also take confidence from the fact that they have won both their previous encounters against Jammu and Kashmir.

One of the most intriguing sub-plots of the final will be the battle between Karnataka’s star-studded batting and the fiery pace of Auqib Nabi. The 29-year-old has been the driving force behind Jammu and Kashmir’s historic run, claiming 55 wickets in nine matches at a staggering average of 12.72, the second-highest wicket tally in the competition. With just five more scalps needed to finish as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker, Nabi will be central to his team’s hopes.

He has received able support from left-arm seamer Sunil Kumar and spinner Abid Mushtaq, but it is Nabi whom Karnataka’s batters will be most keen to neutralise early.

The venue, KSCA Stadium, has hosted just one match this season, a contest in which Karnataka crushed Chandigarh by an innings and 185 runs, highlighted by R. Smaran’s magnificent 227. While conditions may favour the hosts, Jammu and Kashmir have repeatedly defied expectations, making this a final rich in intrigue and possibility.

When: Tuesday, February 24, 9:30 AM IST
Where: KSCA Stadium, Hubbali
Live telecast: Star Sports Khel
Live streaming: JioHotstar

As history beckons, Jammu and Kashmir will aim to complete an extraordinary journey, while Karnataka look to reaffirm their dominance. The stage is set for a compelling Ranji Trophy final.