Fans erupt as Jammu and Kashmir record first-ever win over Delhi in Ranji Trophy history

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Jammu and Kashmir etched their name into the Ranji Trophy history books on Tuesday, defeating Delhi for the first time ever in 43 encounters. The seven-wicket triumph at the Arun Jaitley Stadium marked a defining moment for the side, showcasing their steady rise in Indian domestic cricket. With this memorable win — their second outright victory of the season — J&K climbed to second spot in the Elite Group D standings, trailing only behind Mumbai.

Auqib Nabi sets the tone with fiery opening spell

After opting to bowl first, Jammu and Kashmir’s pace spearhead Auqib Nabi produced a stunning performance with the ball, dismantling Delhi’s top order through raw pace and control. His spell of 5 for 35 rattled the hosts early, setting the tone for the contest. He found strong support from Vanshaj Sharma (2/57) and Abid Mushtaq (2/30), as Delhi folded for a modest 211 in their first innings.

Delhi’s batters, who looked settled in patches, failed to build on starts. None could convert their efforts into a substantial score, a lapse that J&K’s bowlers capitalized on with relentless accuracy.

Paras Dogra and Abdul Samad turn the tables with commanding knocks

Jammu and Kashmir’s reply got off to a shaky start, losing a few early wickets. But skipper Paras Dogra, known for his composure and experience, anchored the innings brilliantly with a superb 106, his innings laced with crisp boundaries and impeccable timing. Star Abdul Samad complemented him perfectly, playing a free-flowing 85, while Kanhaiya Wadhawan’s 47 added depth to the total. The trio’s combined effort lifted J&K to 310, giving them a vital 99-run lead and the upper hand in the contest.

Vanshaj Sharma stars as Delhi collapse dramatically

Delhi’s second innings began with promise. Skipper Ayush Badoni (72) and Ayush Doseja (62) showed resilience, helping their side to 267/5 and raising hopes of setting a challenging target. However, what followed was a shocking collapse — the last five wickets tumbled for just 10 runs.

Left-arm spinner Vanshaj was the chief architect of Delhi’s downfall, claiming 6 for 68, his third five-wicket haul in just four matches. His accuracy and variations on a wearing pitch proved too much for Delhi’s lower order. The hosts were bowled out for 277, leaving J&K a target of 179.

Qamran Iqbal seals a famous win with a career-best century

Chasing 179 on Day 4, Qamran Iqbal rose to the occasion with the innings of his life. Displaying remarkable composure, the young opener scored an unbeaten 133, guiding J&K to 179/3 and scripting an unforgettable chapter in their cricketing journey. As the winning runs were struck, J&K players and fans alike erupted in joy — a victory decades in the making had finally arrived. This triumph wasn’t just about points on the table; it symbolized the region’s progress, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of its cricketers.

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