Srinagar, Feb 18, : The Jammu and Kashmir cricket team scripted history by reaching the final of the Ranji Trophy for the first time in 67 years, defeating two-time former champions Bengal cricket team by six wickets on the fourth day of the semifinal on Wednesday.
Chasing a modest target of 126 set by the hosts, J&K completed the task in 34.4 overs. Vanshaj Sharma remained unbeaten on 43 while Abdul Samad contributed an unbeaten 30, the duo stitching together a decisive 55-run partnership to guide the side home.
Earlier, pace spearhead Auqib Nabi dismantled Bengal’s resistance with a nine-wicket match haul, putting J&K in command of the contest. Bengal, who had posted 328 in their first innings, were bundled out for 99 in 25.1 overs in the second innings, leaving J&K with a below-par target.
J&K had earlier scored 302 in their first innings. At stumps on day three, they were 43 for 2. The side suffered early setbacks on day four with the dismissal of overnight batter Shubham Pundir for 27 and skipper Paras Dogra for 9. However, composure from the middle order ensured there were no further hiccups.
The victory marks a watershed moment for J&K cricket. Having first participated in the Ranji Trophy in the 1959-60 season, the team had long struggled to establish itself among the heavyweights of Indian domestic cricket. Their previous best came in the 2013-14 season when they reached the knockout stage after over a decade.
Brief scores: Bengal 328 and 99 in 25.1 overs. Jammu and Kashmir 302 and 126 for 4 in 34.4 overs.
