RANJI TROPHY 2025-26: J&K post mammoth 771 runs with 3 batters in triple-figure scores

Srinagar, Jan 31: Jammu and Kashmir tightened their grip on the Ranji Trophy Elite clash against Himachal Pradesh on Day 3, piling up a mammoth 771 in their first innings before striking early with the ball to leave the hosts reeling.

Resuming from an overnight dominant position, J&K’s batting order put on a relentless show, led by Shubham Singh Pundir, who followed up his Day 2 heroics with a magnificent 165, marking a strong statement in his comeback to the side. Pundir anchored the innings with composure and authority, setting the tone for the long haul.

He was ably supported by Kanhaiya Wadhwan, who marked his return from injury with a fluent 110, showing patience and control during a vital phase of the innings. The duo ensured that J&K maintained momentum and stretched Himachal’s bowling resources.

The standout performance of the day, however, came from Abid Mushtaq, who produced a breathtaking knock of 177, punishing the tired attack with an array of strokes. His innings not only swelled the total but also underlined J&K’s batting depth in this crucial final league fixture.

Lower down the order, valuable contributions from Auqib Nabi (54) and Yudhvir Singh (65) further compounded Himachal’s misery as J&K crossed the 750-run mark, ending their innings at 771 in 182.1 overs.

Himachal Pradesh had a torrid start to their second innings as J&K’s pace spearhead Auqib Nabi struck twice inside the first three overs. Nabi removed A R Kalsi and A K Bains, leaving the hosts struggling at 26/2 at stumps, still trailing by a daunting 577 runs.

With the match firmly in their control, J&K will look to press for an outright win on Day 4 as Himachal face the daunting task of batting out time against a confident bowling unit.