The Jammu and Kashmir cricket team secured a brilliant and morale-boosting victory against a strong Maharashtra side today in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Group B match at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Chasing 131, J&K demonstrated composure and firepower to win by 5 wickets with an over remaining, reaffirming their status as a rapidly ascending force in Indian domestic cricket.
Jammu and Kashmir opted to bowl first and executed their plan with precision, restricting Maharashtra to 130 runs all out in 19.5 overs.The pace attack was relentless, spearheaded by Auqib Nabi (3 wickets for 28 runs) and Yudhvir Singh (2 wickets for 22 runs), who dismantled the top and middle order.
Speedster Umran Malik and left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq provided excellent control and timely breakthroughs, both claiming two wickets apiece, were crucial in strangling the Maharashtra innings.
Chasing a modest target, J&K had a measured start with opener Qamran Iqbal providing a solid foundation (28 off 27 balls). The middle order then demonstrated the new-found depth and finishing ability of the squad:
The match was sealed by the heroic, unbeaten partnership between Kanhaiya Wadhawan (19 runs off 11 balls) and Abid Mushtaq (18 runs off 9 balls). Their quick-fire contributions under pressure ensured the target of 131 was overhauled in just 18.4 overs.
Today’s victory over a formidable team like Maharashtra underscores a significant transformation in Jammu and Kashmir cricket. For years, the team’s performances were sporadic, but recent seasons have witnessed a major shift.
The presence of IPL regulars like Abdul Samad, alongside emerging stars like Auqib Nabi, Yudhvir Singh, and Abid Mushtaq, shows the region is now a consistent source of top-level cricketers.The team is moving past the phase of merely competing they are now playing to win. The calculated chase and successful navigation of a tricky mid-innings slump reflect a deep-seated self-belief and tactical maturity previously unseen.
The recent upswing in performances across domestic tournaments, including historic victories and qualifying for knockout stages, is a direct result of enhanced infrastructure, professional coaching, and unwavering support from the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA).
The Jammu and Kashmir team’s performance serves as an inspiration for the youth back home, proving that with dedication and opportunity, they can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the nation. The future of cricket in the region is bright, and this team is determined to continue its upward trajectory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.