SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir created history in domestic cricket on Monday by defeating Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 quarterfinal at Holkar Stadium, Indore, securing their maiden semifinal appearance.
The victory was largely driven by an outstanding bowling display led by pacer Auqib Nabi, who delivered a decisive performance across both innings. Nabi picked up 12 wickets in the match, repeatedly dismantling Madhya Pradesh’s batting lineup and shifting the momentum in JK’s favour at crucial stages.
Although JK posted modest totals in both innings, their bowlers maintained firm control of the contest. Nabi’s fiery first-innings spell helped the team gain a vital lead, while his relentless pace in the second innings sparked a dramatic batting collapse, putting Madhya Pradesh under intense pressure.
Backed by disciplined contributions from the rest of the bowling attack and sharp fielding, JK kept their opponents on the defensive during the key phases of the game. Madhya Pradesh were eventually bowled out, handing JK a memorable 56-run victory.
The landmark triumph ends years of quarterfinal disappointments for the side and signals the growing strength of Jammu and Kashmir cricket in India’s premier domestic tournament.
