New Delhi, November 11:
Jammu & Kashmir’s remarkable rise in Indian domestic cricket continued as they defeated Delhi by seven wickets in the Ranji Trophy 2025, registering their first-ever victory over the capital side in the tournament’s history.
The historic win at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi marked a defining moment for J&K cricket — showcasing grit, consistency, and maturity from a young side that continues to challenge India’s domestic heavyweights.
🌟 Qamran Iqbal’s Unbeaten 133 Leads the Chase
Chasing 179 for victory, opener Qamran Iqbal produced the innings of his career, smashing an unbeaten 133, his personal best in First-Class cricket.
His knock was a masterclass in composure and control, anchoring J&K’s innings through early pressure and guiding them to a comfortable chase.
Iqbal’s innings featured elegant strokeplay and mature shot selection, symbolizing the team’s evolving temperament in crunch situations.
⚡ Abdul Samad’s Explosive 86 and Vanshaj’s Six-Wicket Burst
J&K’s momentum was built on the foundation of Abdul Samad’s brisk 86 in the first innings — a counter-attacking effort that ensured Delhi never gained full control.
With the ball, Vanshaj Sharma was the star, delivering a game-changing spell of 6 for 68 in Delhi’s second innings. His disciplined seam bowling dismantled Delhi’s middle order and set up the chase.
Veteran Auqib Nabi also impressed with 5 for 35 in the first innings, ensuring Delhi’s batting lineup never truly settled.
📈 J&K’s Rise in Domestic Cricket
This victory marks J&K’s second outright win of the 2025 season, propelling them to second place in Elite Group D, just behind Mumbai.
In recent years, Jammu & Kashmir have developed a reputation as giant killers in the Ranji Trophy — having beaten established teams like Mumbai, Baroda, Rajasthan, and Vidarbha.
Their progress underlines the growing depth and competitiveness of India’s domestic circuit.
🧮 Brief Scores
Jammu & Kashmir 310 (Shubham Dogra 106, Abdul Samad 85, Simarjeet Singh 6/52)
and 179/3 (Qamran Iqbal 133*, Hriday Shokeen 2/52)
Delhi 211 (Rohan Doseja 65, Ayush Badoni 64, Auqib Nabi 5/35)
and 277 (Badoni 72, Vanshaj Sharma 6/68, Lotra 3/73)
Result: J&K beat Delhi by 7 wickets
💬 Key Highlights
- Jammu & Kashmir beat Delhi for the first time in Ranji Trophy history.
- Qamran Iqbal scored a career-best unbeaten 133 in the chase.
- Vanshaj Sharma starred with a six-wicket haul (6/68).
- Abdul Samad’s 86 powered J&K’s strong first innings.
- J&K move to second in Elite Group D, continuing their dream season.
