Kashmir, February 26,2026 -Jammu & Kashmir continued their strong run in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final, reaching a commanding 527/6 in 156 overs against hosts Karnataka at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium on Day 2.
After a challenging first day, veteran skipper Paras Dogra returned to the crease with determination, scoring a well-crafted 70 off 166 balls despite the bruising short-pitched bowling he faced yesterday. His resilience set the tone for a dominant batting performance from the visitors.
Opening the innings, Shubham Pundir laid the foundation with a classy 121 off 247 balls, hitting 12 fours and 2 sixes. Yawer Hassan contributed an aggressive 88 off 150 balls, while Kanhaiya Wadhawan added a brisk 70 off 109 balls. The middle order supported well with Abdul Samad (61 off 104) and Sahil Lotra remaining unbeaten on 57 off 93.
Karnataka’s pace spearhead Prasidh Krishna was the only bowler to make a significant impact, finishing with figures of 3/90 in 29 overs. However, the rest of the bowling attack struggled on a placid pitch that increasingly favoured the batters.
Despite Karnataka’s attempts with short balls and bouncers, Jammu & Kashmir batters showed composure and technique, highlighting their intent to put pressure on the eight-time champions. The team batted for 69 overs on Day 2 before bad light and rain halted play, leaving them in a commanding position.
This performance has shifted the momentum firmly in favor of Jammu & Kashmir, as six of their batters crossed fifty, signalling a potential historic triumph in the Ranji Trophy final.
Key Highlights – Day 2:
- Jammu & Kashmir: 527/6 (156 overs)
- Shubham Pundir: 121 (247b; 12×4; 2×6)
- Yawer Hassan: 88 (150b)
- Paras Dogra: 70 (166b)
- Kanhaiya Wadhawan: 70 (109b)
- Abdul Samad: 61 (104b)
- Sahil Lotra: 57* (93b)
- Prasidh Krishna: 3/90 (29 overs)
Jammu & Kashmir’s strategy of patient batting on a tricky surface has put Karnataka on the back foot, and all eyes will be on whether they can maintain their grip on the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final in the coming days.
