JKCA, Mumbai face off in Ranji Trophy season opener at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium

Srinagar, Oct 15: The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season began on a lively note in Srinagar on Wednesday as Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) took on a formidable Mumbai side at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar.

Opting to field first after winning the toss, J&K skipper backed his pace attack to make early inroads, and the decision paid off almost instantly.

Speedster Auqib Nabi provided the hosts with a breakthrough in the opening over, removing Sarfaraz Khan caught behind.

However, the absence of Umran Malik from the playing XI raised eyebrows among fans who had turned up to witness the season opener.

Following the early setback, Mumbai’s Ajinkya Rahane and Ayush Mhatre steadied the innings as the visitors reached 24 for 1 at the time of reporting.

Notably, the match marks the much-awaited return of premier domestic cricket to Srinagar, with enthusiastic local supporters braving the early morning chill to back their home team and also to watch National, IPL players.