J&K pacer Auqib Nabi removes Rahul, Nair and Smaran on Day 3 of Ranji Trophy final to put his side in command

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Auqib Nabi said that maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on execution rather than results has been the key to his remarkable success in the Ranji Trophy. The Jammu & Kashmir fast bowler once again rose to the occasion on Day 3 of the final against Karnataka cricket team, putting his side in a commanding position.

Jammu & Kashmir ended the day 364 runs ahead, thanks largely to Nabi’s incisive spell with the ball. He struck crucial blows by dismissing KL Rahul and Karun Nair with probing deliveries that left Karnataka reeling at 57 for 3. He then removed R Smaran for a golden duck, further denting Karnataka’s hopes and continuing his outstanding run this season.

Reflecting on his performances over the past two first-class seasons, Nabi credited hard work and mental clarity. He revealed that hours in the nets, both with coaches and individually, have sharpened his skills, while staying focused on bowling in the right areas has helped him remain consistent. Since the start of the 2024-25 season, Nabi has claimed 108 wickets at an impressive average of 13.58. In the ongoing Ranji season alone, he has taken 58 wickets and is just two shy of finishing as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker.

The build-up to the final had centered on J&K’s bowling attack facing a strong Karnataka batting line-up that included experienced names. Despite receiving messages urging him to dismiss Rahul, Nabi said his approach remained unchanged. He focused purely on bowling in the right channel and not worrying about the batter at the other end. That clarity of thought once again paid dividends on the big stage.

With Jammu & Kashmir playing their maiden Ranji Trophy final, they are now within touching distance of history. Even if the match does not produce an outright result, a first-innings lead could be enough to secure their first-ever Ranji Trophy title, with Nabi’s fiery spell placing them firmly in ascendancy.