Jammu & Kashmir secure a massive 291-run first-innings lead despite Mayank Agarwal’s 160 and end Day 4 with a commanding 477-run advantage in the Ranji Trophy final

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Jammu & Kashmir moved to the brink of a historic maiden Ranji Trophy title after a gripping fourth day in Hubballi, powered by a sensational five-wicket haul from Auqib Nabi and an unbeaten 94 from Qamran Iqbal. The visitors dominated proceedings to put one hand firmly on the trophy, stretching their overall lead to a massive 477 runs with six wickets still in hand.

Karnataka began the day hoping their captain Mayank Agarwal would anchor a fightback, and he did just that with a magnificent 160. He found some support from Kruthik Krishna as the duo added 79 runs for the sixth wicket, briefly frustrating the J&K bowlers. However, a contentious lbw decision against Kruthik shifted the momentum. Once the second new ball was taken, Nabi produced a fiery spell, picking up 5 for 54 and dismantling the lower order. His seventh five-wicket haul of the season helped bowl Karnataka out for 293, securing a commanding 291-run first-innings lead for J&K and taking his season tally to 60 wickets — the highest in the tournament.

Despite the strong position, J&K faced early jitters in their second innings. Prasidh Krishna struck with the very first ball to dismiss Yawer Hassan, and Vyshak removed first-innings centurion Shubham Pundir just before lunch, reducing J&K to 11 for 2. Sensing an opportunity, Karnataka pressed hard, hoping to trigger an unlikely collapse and revive their chances in the final.

However, Qamran Iqbal and captain Paras Dogra steadied the innings with a crucial 61-run partnership after lunch. Qamran, who came into the side after a late change, showcased his unconventional yet effective technique. Though he survived a close call when the ball clipped the top of off stump without dislodging the bails, he gradually grew in confidence. He counterattacked smartly, striking 11 fours and a six, and ensured Karnataka’s hopes of a comeback faded quickly.

After Dogra’s dismissal, Abdul Samad joined Qamran and the pair added another valuable 73 runs. Karnataka attempted short-ball tactics and aggressive bowling spells to unsettle the batters, leading to a few heated exchanges on the field. Despite the pressure and verbal volleys, Qamran remained composed, continuing to accumulate runs and frustrate the opposition attack.

By stumps on Day 4, Jammu & Kashmir were 186 for 4 in their second innings, holding a mammoth 477-run lead. With Qamran unbeaten on 94 and history within touching distance, J&K now stand just one strong performance away from clinching their maiden Ranji Trophy title.