Ranji Trophy 2025-26: JKCA, Mumbai to clash in season opener at SK Stadium today

Srinagar, Oct 14: The high-profile Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season opener is all set to begin today at Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, Srinagar, between JKCA and star-studded Mumbai, marking a major moment for cricket in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking to Greater Kashmir, a senior Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) official said all arrangements were finalised and the stadium was ready to host the first match of the season.

“Team preparation is complete, everything is in place, and the crowd is welcome to come and watch the game,” the official said. “Public entry will be allowed through designated gates. Food items and eatables won’t be permitted inside the premises.”

The official confirmed that BCCI president Mithun Manhas will attend the match, accompanied by senior dignitaries including Sunil Sethi and Brigadier Anil Gupta. He added India selector Ajay Ratra was also expected to be present.

“The BCCI president will watch the match himself, which is a great encouragement for our players,” the official added.

As per the JKCA officials, the match is scheduled to start at 9:30 a.m., and the playing XI will be finalised Wednesday morning after an assessment of pitch and weather conditions.

The JKCA official said star J&K players Abdul Samad and Umran Malik were highly likely to feature, giving local fans another reason to cheer.

The official, however, said Shivam Dube has been ruled out for the first match, possibly due to a back spasm, and has flown back to Mumbai.

The visiting Mumbai side, led by Shardul Thakur, boasts top international, domestic and IPL names like Ajinkya Rahane, Sarfraz Khan, Musheer Khan, and Shams Mulani.

“The teams have arrived, and the atmosphere is already charged with excitement,” the JKCA official said. “We are expecting a good turnout, as this is the first Ranji match of the new season being played in Srinagar.”

The JKCA official said with ideal weather conditions and extensive preparations by JKCA, this fixture promises to set the tone for the Ranji Trophy season and rekindle the spirit of top-tier domestic cricket in the Valley.