Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Spinners, lower order must deliver, game against Delhi crucial: Samiullah Beigh

Srinagar, Nov 6: Former Jammu and Kashmir cricket team skipper Samiullah Beigh has lauded the team’s progress in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2025–26 but cautioned that the upcoming away fixtures will test their adaptability and depth.

“J&K is on the right track, but spinners and lower-order batters have to come to the party and start contributing,” Beigh told Greater Kashmir, reflecting on the team’s position after three matches. “Since three of the remaining four games are away, we won’t be getting pace-friendly pitches. Teams will be wary of J&K’s pace bowling prowess and will likely prepare rank turners or flat tracks.”

J&K currently sit fourth in Elite Group D with eight points from three games, one win, one loss, and one draw, and face crucial matches against Delhi, Hyderabad, Himachal Pradesh, and Pondicherry.

Beigh said that he believes the outcome of the Delhi fixture could determine J&K’s path to the quarterfinals.

“The game against Delhi will be most important and shall decide the journey to the quarters,” Beigh said. “To qualify, Auqib, Shubham and Paras must continue their top forms, but others have to make valid contributions.”

With Hyderabad and Mumbai leading the group on 10 points each and Rajasthan close behind on 9, J&K will need a strong finish to stay in contention for the knockouts.

Meanwhile, as per the official stats, Auqib Nabi has been J&K’s standout performer, currently ranked fourth among the top wicket-takers in the Ranji Trophy with 19 wickets in five innings. Questions remain over Umran Malik’s availability, Umar Nazir’s form, and Yudhvir Singh Charak’s absence owing to his India A call-up.