Sports

Developing Story / Sports

Jammu & Kashmir Win Historic First-Ever Ranji Trophy Title After 67 Years

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Ranji Trophy Title After 67 Years

The final against Karnataka ended in a draw on Saturday, 28 February 2026, at the KSCA Cricket Ground in Hubballi. But J&K were declared champions because of their huge first-innings lead of 291 runs.

This is a massive moment after 67 years since J&K first played in the Ranji Trophy back in 1959-60. The team, led by captain Paras Dogra, completely dominated the game against a strong Karnataka side that included stars like KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Mayank Agarwal, and Prasidh Krishna.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Match Summary

  • J&K 1st innings: 584 all out (Shubham Pundir hit 121, Yawer Hassan made 88; Prasidh Krishna took 5 wickets for Karnataka).
  • Karnataka 1st innings: 293 all out (Mayank Agarwal scored 160; Auqib Nabi took 5-54 – his seventh five-wicket haul this season).
  • J&K 2nd innings: 342 for 4 declared (Qamran Iqbal stayed not out on 160, Sahil Lotra scored 101).

J&K built a lead of over 600 runs overall before declaring. They controlled every day and never let Karnataka fight back. Auqib Nabi was named Player of the Series for his brilliant bowling.

Celebrations are happening across Jammu and Kashmir – people are full of pride! Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced a ₹2 crore cash reward for the team and support staff, plus government jobs for the players under special rules for top sports stars.

Many are calling this a proud day for the region and a big boost for cricket here. Players like Auqib Nabi, Qamran Iqbal, Shubham Pundir, and the whole squad are real heroes.

Well done, Team J&K – you’ve inspired so many!

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Sports

Jammu & Kashmir Dominate Karnataka on Day 3 of Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final

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J&K Sports

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) seized firm control of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final against eight-time champions Karnataka on Day 3 at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground, leaving the hosts staring at a massive first-innings deficit.

J&K, appearing in their maiden Ranji final, were bowled out for a commanding 584 in 173.1 overs early on Day 3, adding 57 runs to their overnight 527/6. Shubham Pundir top-scored with a gritty 121 (off 247 balls, 12 fours, 2 sixes), while contributions came from Paras Dogra (70), Kanhaiya Wadhawan (70), Sahil Lotra (72 off 138 balls, including 8 fours), and others. Karnataka pacer Prasidh Krishna claimed a five-wicket haul (5/98) but toiled on a largely placid pitch. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

In reply, Karnataka’s batting lineup crumbled against J&K’s disciplined seam attack, led by pacer Auqib Nabi, who delivered a devastating spell of 3/32 in 14 overs. Nabi dismantled the top order, dismissing KL Rahul, Karun Nair, and season’s leading run-scorer R Smaran around the lunch interval, reducing Karnataka to 57/4 as the ball swung and seamed effectively.

Opener Mayank Agarwal mounted a lone resistance with an unbeaten 130 (off 207 balls, 17 fours), anchoring the innings and preventing a complete collapse. At stumps on Day 3, Karnataka were 220/5 in 69 overs, still trailing by a hefty 364 runs. Kruthik Krishna remained unbeaten on 27* alongside Agarwal.

The day highlighted J&K’s superior bowling intensity and accuracy on a surface that offered little earlier, contrasting Karnataka’s struggles. With only the tailenders left, Karnataka face an uphill battle to avoid the follow-on and force a contest on Day 4.

This historic final sees underdogs J&K pushing for a maiden title against a star-studded Karnataka side featuring multiple Test players. Play resumes tomorrow, with J&K firmly in the driver’s seat.

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Sports

Jammu & Kashmir Dominate Day 1 Against Karnataka in Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final

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J&K Sports

First-time finalists Jammu & Kashmir made a resounding statement against eight-time champions Karnataka on Day 1 of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final, at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground on Tuesday.

By the close of play, J&K reached a commanding 284/2, frustrating a star-studded Karnataka bowling attack.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

After Jammu and Kashmir captain Paras Dogra won the toss and elected to bat, the pressure of the big stage seemed momentarily evident when Prasidh Krishna struck early, removing opener Qamran Iqbal for just 6 runs in the 11th over, reducing J&K to 18/1. However, that was as good as it got for the hosts for most of the day.

Opener Yawer Hassan and number three batter Shubham Pundir combined for a gritty and vital 139-run partnership. Hassan, who played with great composure, missed out on a well-deserved century when he was dismissed for 88 off 150 balls by Prasidh Krishna–his second wicket of the day. His departure brought a brief moment of hope for Karnataka, but the clinical Pundir remained unbothered.

The final session belonged entirely to the visitors. Shubham Pundir showed immense temperament, reaching his century (117*) and anchoring the innings with a mix of caution and occasional aggression, hitting 12 fours and two sixes.

He found a perfect partner in Abdul Samad, who reached his half-century (52*) just before the close of play, ensuring that J&K capitalised on the strong base set up by the batters. The duo put on an unbeaten 105-run stand to see out the day.

Karnataka will look to claw back into the contest on Day 2 and push for early wickets. For Jammu & Kashmir, the mission will be to push this total past 450 to put the heavyweight Karnataka batting lineup–featuring the likes of KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Karun Nair, Smaran Ravichandran and Mayank Agarwal–under significant scoreboard pressure. (ANI)

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News / Sports

Winter Sports Demonstration Events Begin at Kongdori, 34 States Participate

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Winter Sports

The fixtures of the ongoing winter sports activities will commence at Kongdori from Monday morning and continue till February 26, Secretary Nuzhat Jehangir said on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters here, she said the main Field of Play (FOP) has been set up near the club at Kongdori, where the events will be held.Jehangir said winter sports events have already begun in Ladakh, with ice hockey and other ice-sport disciplines being organised there, while snow-based events in Kashmir are starting from Sunday morning.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

She said there was visible enthusiasm at the venue, with skiers from various states taking part in the activities.Clarifying the nature of the event in Kashmir, she said it is a demonstration event and not a competitive one.

The programme also includes cultural performances and the ski-mashal as part of the celebrations, she added.Jehangir said athletes from 34 states are participating in the winter sports activities and the total strength of the Games Village is around 950 participants.

She said the participation of children from diverse regions and backgrounds sends a message of unity through sports.(KNS)

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Sports

Jammu and Kashmir Take 325-Run Lead After Aquib Nabi’s Five-For Dismantles Bengal in Ranji Semifinal

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J&K Sports

Jammu and Kashmir tightened their grip on the Ranji Trophy first semifinal after bowling out Bengal for 328 in 97.1 overs on Day 2. With a commanding 325-run lead, J&K are now within touching distance of a historic place in the Ranji Trophy final.

The disciplined bowling attack, led by Aquib Nabi, dismantled Bengal’s batting lineup despite a brilliant century from Sudip Gharami. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Aquib Nabi’s Five-Wicket Haul Puts J&K in Control

Aquib Nabi once again proved why he has been J&K’s standout performer this season. The pacer delivered a match-defining spell, finishing with impressive figures of 5 for 87 in 26 overs.

Nabi struck at crucial intervals, removing well-set batters and ensuring Bengal never built sustained momentum. His ability to maintain pressure and break partnerships tilted the game heavily in Jammu and Kashmir’s favor.

Supporting him brilliantly was Sunil Kumar, who returned with 3 for 41, keeping things tight and denying Bengal easy scoring opportunities. The bowling unit operated with discipline, accuracy, and patience — a hallmark of J&K’s campaign this season.

Sudip Gharami’s Fighting Century in Vain

Resuming Day 2 with hope, Bengal relied heavily on Sudip Gharami to steady the innings. The right-hander produced a gritty knock of 146 off 246 balls, smashing 21 boundaries in a patient and technically sound innings.

However, he found little consistent support from the other end.

  • Abhimanyu Easwaran scored 49 but failed to convert his start into a big innings.
  • Shahbaz Ahmed added 42 runs.
  • Sumanta Gupta contributed a brisk 39.

Despite these contributions, Bengal’s middle and lower order collapsed under relentless pressure from the J&K bowlers.

Tactical Discipline Makes the Difference

Jammu and Kashmir’s success was built on disciplined bowling lines and smart field placements. They avoided unnecessary aggression, instead focusing on consistency and building pressure over long spells.

By denying Bengal scoring opportunities and forcing errors, J&K prevented any late surge that could have reduced the deficit.

The strategy worked perfectly, allowing them to establish a massive 325-run lead.

Historic Ranji Trophy Final Within Reach

With momentum firmly on their side, Jammu and Kashmir now stand on the brink of history. A strong performance in the remaining days could see them seal a spot in the Ranji Trophy final — a landmark achievement for the team.

The key going forward will be maintaining composure, capitalizing on the advantage, and avoiding complacency.

Match Summary – Day 2 Highlights

  • Bengal all out: 328 (97.1 overs)
  • Sudip Gharami: 146 (246 balls)
  • Aquib Nabi: 5/87
  • Sunil Kumar: 3/41
  • J&K lead: 325 runs

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Sports

JKSA Urges Kashmiri Students to Exercise Caution Ahead of India-Pakistan T20 World Cup Clash

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Sports Policy on Pakistan

Ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the T20 World Cup, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) on Sunday urged Kashmiri students across the country to view the match in the right spirit and refrain from posting on social media that could land them in trouble.

National Convenor of the Association, Nasir Khuehami, emphasised that students should treat the match as just another sporting event and avoid any actions that might lead to unnecessary complications. “We have urged Kashmiri students studying across the country to remain focused on their education and careers, which is the primary reason they have travelled far from their home state of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The Association also reminded students of the immense sacrifices made by their families; fathers who have worked tirelessly, brothers who have taken loans, sisters who have sold jewellery, and mothers who pray relentlessly for their well-being.

Khuehami asserted that in the past, India-Pakistan cricket matches have led to dozens of students being detained, arrested, summoned, or booked over their social media activity or involvement in heated debates. Such incidents have resulted in serious academic and legal consequences, adversely affecting their education and future prospects.

He emphasised that students must view sports as a game and not let emotions dictate their actions. “We strongly advise students to stay away from social media discussions, debates, or any form of online engagement that could escalate into controversy or indiscipline within their institutions. They should enjoy the game in the true spirit of sportsmanship and avoid unnecessary conflicts,” the Association said.

Khuehami also highlighted the political undertones and strong emotions associated with an India-Pakistan match, cautioning students to remain vigilant. “Students must understand that openly cheering for any particular team may place them in a vulnerable position. It is crucial for them to exercise caution and prioritise their safety on campuses and in their accommodations, keeping in mind the well-being of their families back home,” he advised.

He reiterated that sports should promote unity, peace, and camaraderie rather than division and hostility. “Games and sports extend beyond mere entertainment; they teach us brotherhood, discipline, and harmony. Let this match be a celebration of sportsmanship, not a cause for discord,” he added.

The Association further noted that earlier this year, the terror attack in Pahalgam brought two nuclear-armed neighbours to the brink of escalation, highlighting how fragile peace remains. Despite Kashmiris coming out overwhelmingly in support of the victims and strongly condemning terrorism, there were several incidents across mainland India where students from Jammu and Kashmir faced difficulties and backlash.

In this context, the Association urged all students from Jammu and Kashmir studying across the country to maintain harmony and peace during the upcoming India-Pakistan cricket match.

“There is significant public sentiment surrounding this match in the backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent escalation of tensions. This contest will not be viewed merely as a sporting event but will inevitably carry political, emotional, and nationalistic overtones. We therefore reiterat.

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Developing Story / Sports

Gulmarg to Host Khelo India Winter Games 2026 Snow Events from February 23–26

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Khelo India

The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya announced the dates for the Gulmarg leg of the Khelo India Winter Games 2026, which will be held from February 23 to 26 in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. This will be the sixth edition of the Khelo India Winter Games.

The first leg of KIWG 2026, featuring ice sports, was successfully held in Ladakh from January 20 to 26, while Gulmarg will host the snow sports competitions. The Indian Army will defend its overall championship title in Jammu & Kashmir. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The Gulmarg leg is coming at the back of the Winter Olympics, and this is the perfect time to host the Khelo India Winter Games. We had a very successful first phase in Leh (Ladakh) and surely, we will see the same excitement in Jammu & Kashmir as athletes will once again battle with nature and challenging conditions,” said Mandaviya as per a SAI Media press release

“Every season of the Khelo India Winter Games has seen exciting performances and rising competition. In Leh, the addition of figure skating enhanced the competitive intensity, and in Gulmarg, we are expecting some impressive timings on the Kongdoori slopes,” he added.

Until the introduction of the Khelo India Winter Games, winter sports in India had very limited visibility, awareness, or structured competition. Ice and snow disciplines largely remained niche pursuits with negligible public engagement and sporadic athlete participation at the international level.

The Khelo India Winter Games have fundamentally transformed India’s winter sports ecosystem by creating a national competitive platform for both ice sports and snow sports, significantly expanding participation, performance standards, and public awareness. What was once a marginal sporting segment is now steadily evolving into a structured talent pipeline.

This transformation is already reflecting in international outcomes. Indian winter athletes are beginning to register podium finishes and competitive performances abroad, signalling the emergence of a new generation of talent.

Notably, Indian figure skater Tara Prasad has delivered medal-winning performances at international competitions, while the Indian women’s ice hockey team won a historic bronze medal at the 2025 IIHF Women’s Asia Cup, marking India’s first-ever podium finish in an international ice hockey championship. The team also recorded landmark victories during the tournament, underlining the rapid progress being made in ice sports at the global level.

These achievements highlight how Khelo India Winter Games are laying the foundational bedrock for sustained international participation, moving India beyond an earlier phase where participation in the Winter Olympics was often limited to one or no athletes. With regular domestic competition, exposure to high-pressure environments, and increasing depth across disciplines, this trajectory is expected to strengthen further in the coming years.

The timing of the Gulmarg leg of KIWG 2026 is also strategically significant, as it follows soon after the conclusion of the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026, where India is represented by alpine skier Arif Khan and cross-country skier Stanzin Lundup, helping to carry forward global momentum, enthusiasm, and competitive energy into the domestic winter sports calendar, and ensuring continuity in athlete motivation, public interest, and national focus on winter sports development.

Gulmarg will feature four medal disciplines, namely Ski Mountaineering, Alpine Skiing, Nordic Skiing (Cross-Country), and Snowboarding, with around 400 athletes expected to compete, and Alpine Skiing drawing the highest participation.

At the conclusion of the KIWG 2025 season, the Indian Army topped the team standings with 18 medals, while Himachal Pradesh finished second, followed by Ladakh, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu. At the end of the KIWG 2026 Ladakh leg, Haryana led the medal tally with four gold medals, all won by its figure and ice skaters, followed by Ladakh, Maharashtra, and Telangana.

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Sports

Jammu & Kashmir Make History, Reach Ranji Trophy Semi-Finals After Beating Madhya Pradesh

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J&K Sports

Jammu & Kashmir created history in Indian domestic cricket on Monday by qualifying for the Ranji Trophy semi-finals for the first time ever. The historic achievement came after a brilliant victory over Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 quarterfinal at the Holkar Stadium in Indore.

The memorable win was powered by an outstanding bowling performance from fast bowler Auqib Nabi, who played a key role throughout the match. Nabi was simply unplayable, troubling the Madhya Pradesh batters with pace, accuracy and movement. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

In the first innings, Auqib Nabi took an impressive seven wickets, breaking the backbone of Madhya Pradesh’s batting line-up. He followed it up with another excellent spell in the second innings, picking up five more wickets. His 12-wicket haul ensured Madhya Pradesh remained under constant pressure and never gained control of the match.

Thanks to this dominant bowling display, Jammu & Kashmir secured a famous victory and booked their place in the Ranji Trophy semi-finals. The win also ended years of disappointment for the team, who had previously fallen short in knockout matches.

This landmark success marks a defining moment for cricket in Jammu & Kashmir and is expected to inspire a new generation of cricketers from the region.

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Developing Story / Sports

J&K Government Announces Republic Day Awards 2026 for Nine Outstanding Sportspersons

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Awards 2026

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced the Republic Day Awards 2026 for nine outstanding sportspersons, recognising their remarkable achievements and valuable contribution to sports.

According to an official government order, the awards have been approved under the category Award for Outstanding Sports Persons. Each award carries a cash prize of ₹51,000 along with a citation. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The award recipients include Aquib Nabi Dar and Brijesh Sharma for Cricket, Rakesh Singh for Deaf Judo, Vishal Khajuria for Judo, Saleem Kumar for Wushu, Ravees Ahmad for Pencak Silat, Sudip Khanna for Gymnastics, Mohammad Iqbal as Athlete and Coach, and Aiyza Naz Chib for Skating.

The award ceremony will be held today on Republic Day 2026. During the event, the sportspersons will be honoured for bringing pride to the Union Territory and for inspiring the next generation of young athletes.

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Education / Sports

IUST Wins Five Silver Medals in Table Tennis at Jammu University Tournament

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IUST Wins

In a State Level Tournament organised by the University of Jammu, the contingent from Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) won five silver medals in the Table Tennis category.

The tournament saw participation from nineteen institutions across the North Zone, making the achievement a proud moment for the university. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Congratulating the students, Shakil Ahmad Romshoo, Vice-Chancellor of IUST, said the university gives great importance to extra-curricular activities. He added that IUST officially recognises and credits such activities, which helps encourage student participation.

He further said that the university has prepared a sports action plan aimed at developing standard sports infrastructure. The plan also includes engaging nationally and internationally recognised sportspersons as Professors of Practice.

I/C Sports, Mursheed Ahmad Khan, also congratulated the players and praised the efforts of the contingent led by Hilal Ahmad Rather, Assistant Director Sports.

The achievement highlights IUST’s growing focus on sports and overall student development.

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