Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Jammu and Kashmir scripted history by winning their first-ever Ranji Trophy title after their final against Karnataka ended in a draw on Saturday. They were declared champions because of a massive first-innings lead, which proved decisive in the summit clash.In terms of prize money, the BCCI had increased domestic rewards in April 2023. The Ranji Trophy winners will now receive Rs 5 crore, runners-up get Rs 3 crore, and losing semi-finalists earn Rs 1 crore.
J&K had put themselves in a strong position by scoring a huge 584 in their first innings. In response, Karnataka were bowled out for 293 in 93.3 overs. Pacer Auqib Nabi led the bowling attack brilliantly. The right-arm pacer picked up five wickets for 54 runs and handed his team a commanding 291-run lead.Despite having the option to enforce the follow-on, J&K chose to bat again and bat Karnataka completely out of the contest. On the fifth and final day, they resumed their second innings at 186 for four. Qamran Iqbal, who was unbeaten on 94 overnight, and Sahil Lotra, who was on 16, turned the game firmly in their side’s favour with superb centuries.Iqbal remained unbeaten on 160 while Lotra stayed not out on 101 as J&K reached 342/4, stretching their overall lead to a massive 633 runs. With no realistic chance for Karnataka to chase the target, the two captains agreed to shake hands.The triumph is a landmark moment for Jammu and Kashmir, coming 67 years after they began competing in the tournament.
