CM joins celebrations, announces Rs 2 Cr reward for players, support staff
Jammu Tawi, Feb 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for clinching their maiden Ranji Trophy title.
PM Modi wrote on X: “Congratulations to the Jammu and Kashmir team for their first ever Ranji Trophy win! This historic triumph reflects remarkable grit, discipline and passion of the team. It is a proud moment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and it highlights the growing sporting passion and talent there. May this feat inspire many young athletes to dream big and play more.”
Union Home Minister and Amit Shah on Saturday congratulated Jammu & Kashmir for winning Ranji Trophy for the first time ever.
In a post on ‘X’, Shah said, “On Jammu and Kashmir winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every youth of the region and especially to Team J&K that scripted this history. It is a moment that fills every citizen with immense pride and mirrors the reality that the new changes that have swept Jammu and Kashmir are the new identity of its youth. The mantras of peace, progress, and prosperity are the driving force of the New Jammu and Kashmir.”
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team on winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title, describing it as a defining moment in the Union Territory’s sporting history.
In a post on X, LG Sinha wrote, “J&K’s finest hour has arrived. Emotions surge beyond words as I watch our cricket team claim the Ranji Trophy. To every fierce player who carved history through sheer grit, thank you from the entire UT beaming with pride. You have immortalised history—embrace it with honour.” He added that the sporting revolution in the UT had gained momentum in recent years and urged the youth to draw inspiration from the landmark achievement.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced a Rs 2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff of Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for lifting maiden Ranji Trophy title.
Describing the triumph as a defining chapter for J&K cricket, the Chief Minister said the victory has ignited celebrations across the region and inspired a new generation of young sportspersons. He declared that members of the title-winning squad would be eligible for government appointments under the newly notified policy for outstanding athletes.
Facing eight-time champions Karnataka on their home ground, J&K showcased grit and composure to secure the trophy on the strength of a commanding 291-run first-innings lead. The team tightened its grip on the contest by piling up 342/4 in the second innings, stretching the overall advantage to 633 runs by the end of the fifth and final day at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubballi.
Opener Qamran Iqbal led from the front with an unbeaten 160 — his second century in first-class cricket — while Sahil Lotra struck a fluent maiden hundred (101 not out), ensuring J&K remained firmly in control.
With the ball, Auqib Nabi once again proved decisive.
The pacer claimed a five-wicket haul for the seventh time this season, underlining his consistency and impact throughout the campaign.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was present at the stadium to witness the historic occasion, met the players after the match and congratulated them personally.
He applauded Qamran Iqbal and Sahil Lotra for their remarkable innings and commended Auqib Nabi for his match-winning spells, noting that his disciplined bowling was instrumental in steering the team to the title.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq and Members of JKCA accompanied the Chief Minister.
ICC Chairperson JayShah wrote on X: “Congratulations to the Jammu & Kashmir team in India for scripting a remarkable story of grit and perseverance. While the players are fully deserving of the adulation they receive, one must also remember the contribution of the coaching staff, management and administrators from J&K who have toiled behind the scenes to fashion this landmark achievement. I am sure that this win will ignite belief in the hearts of the current generation from the region and drive the next one to pick up a bat or ball. Our sport is rich with such stories of inspiration from around the world and I hope this one also receives its fair share of admiration.”
“Heartiest Congratulations to J&K Cricket Team for winning its maiden Ranji Trophy at Hubli today…it is a classic instance of how well the game of cricket is spread across India despite challenging conditions. Relentless efforts of BCCI & its former Secretary & present ICC Chair Mr @JayShah ‘s vision laid the roadmap, through a 3- members Sub- Committee in place since June,’21 till date to manage cricket activities, has has made the glorious success possible… Indian Cricket continues to flourish!” Devajit LON Saikia secretary BCCI said in a post on ‘X’.
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar described the journey as “beautiful,” highlighting the team’s consistency and resilience, and singling out Auqib Nabi’s standout performance.
“The Kashmir willows have been a part of many champions’ kits. To see Jammu & Kashmir’s journey from being an enabler of champions, to becoming champions themselves, is beautiful.
The season was built on consistency, resilience, and season-long excellence. Auqib Nabi’s impact with the ball stood out in a demanding campaign. A historic moment for the team, coaches, and support staff. Journeys like these define the beauty of domestic cricket,” said Tendulkar on ‘X’
