Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Khare, Ashutosh lead Chhattisgarh fightback, J&K eye first-innings lead

Srinagar, Nov 3: Chhattisgarh showed a spirited fightback on the third day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group match against Jammu and Kashmir at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium, Raipur, giving a tough time to the visiting bowlers on Monday.

After an early morning breakthrough by Auqib Nabi, the hosts recovered through steady partnerships at regular intervals to finish the day at 297/6, still trailing by 97 runs in reply to J&K’s first-innings total of 394.

The recovery was led by skipper Amandeep Khare, who remained unbeaten on 73 off 175 balls, and Ashutosh Singh, who crafted a composed 90 from 209 deliveries. The duo shared a crucial 90-run stand for the fourth wicket, blunting J&K’s attack during a long afternoon session.

Openers Ayush Pandey (32) and Chandrakar (21) provided a cautious start before J&K struck through Umar Nazir and Auqib Nabi. Later, Vanshaj Sharma (2/55) chipped in to keep the pressure on, but the hosts held firm through long occupations of the crease.

For J&K, Vanshaj Sharma was the most effective bowler with 2/55 from 31 overs, while Nazir and Nabi provided key breakthroughs.

With Chhattisgarh still 97 runs behind, all eyes will be on whether J&K can secure a crucial first-innings lead on Day 4 and strengthen their grip on the contest.