The much-anticipated clash between Jammu and Kashmir cricket team’s in-form bowling unit and Karnataka cricket team’s accomplished batting line-up took an unexpected turn on Day One of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final in Hubballi.
After winning the toss on a dry surface expected to deteriorate, J&K opted to bat and ended the day in a commanding position at 284 for 2.
Pundir Anchors, Yawer Impresses, Samad Accelerates
-
Shubham Pundir remained unbeaten on 117*, registering his second century of the season.
-
Yawer Hassan scored a fluent 88, marking his maiden first-class half-century.
-
Abdul Samad finished unbeaten on 52* off just 64 balls, providing late momentum.
J&K’s innings, however, began cautiously. Karnataka’s pace trio — Prasidh Krishna, Vijaykumar Vyshak and Vidyadhar Patil — extracted significant swing, seam movement and bounce with the new ball. J&K managed only 25 runs in the first 14 overs and lost Qamran Iqbal early.
Turning Point: 139-Run Stand
At 18 for 1, Pundir and Yawer stitched together a crucial 139-run partnership. While initially tested, both batters counterattacked effectively once settled. Yawer was particularly proactive against width, while Pundir drove confidently down the ground.
Karnataka introduced leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal early, but he struggled for control in his first spell. J&K went to lunch strongly placed at 104 for 1.
Drama in the Middle Session
Pundir crossed his half-century in the second session as the partnership crossed 100. A brief stumping chance was missed by wicketkeeper Kruthik Krishna when Pundir was on 53, proving costly.
Soon after, Prasidh struck to dismiss Yawer (c KL Rahul b Prasidh), breaking the stand.
J&K captain Paras Dogra endured a testing spell of short-pitched bowling. Repeatedly targeted, he eventually retired hurt on 9 after being struck on the glove by Vyshak, leaving J&K at 179 for 2.
Samad’s Counterattack Seals Dominance
With Dogra off the field, Abdul Samad shifted gears. He struck three consecutive boundaries off Vidyadhar Patil and later punished Gopal with a six and a four.
Pundir brought up his century in style, launching a six over deep midwicket. As the final hour approached, Karnataka’s bowlers appeared increasingly bereft of answers.
Samad reached his half-century in the penultimate over, capping off a dominant day for J&K.
