Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26: J&K face must-win clashes as NRR battle intensifies
Srinagar, Dec 5: With two crucial fixtures left in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Group B, Jammu & Kashmir find themselves in a tight race for a knockout berth as they prepare to face Goa today, followed by a decisive clash against Madhya Pradesh. J&K currently sit fifth on the table with 12 points and a Net Run Rate (NRR) of –0.747, behind Goa and Madhya Pradesh, both also on 12 points but with stronger NRRs.
Hyderabad leads the group with 16 points, followed by Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Goa, leaving J&K with only one clear equation, win both remaining matches and win big.
Former J&K skipper Samiullah Beigh, analysing the qualification scenario, said the path is narrow but achievable if the side approach the next two games with clarity and tactical aggression.
“NRR will decide everything now”
According to Beigh, J&K not only need victories but ones that significantly overturn their negative run rate. “J&K are in contention (12 pts), they can make the knockouts, but their negative NRR means they practically must win at least one of the remaining matches and preferably both. If they end up on equal points with rivals, the current NRR makes qualification an uphill fight unless they produce a big win to swing NRR positive.”
He stressed that J&K’s powerplay approach needs sharpening to set the tone early. “Use powerplay to chase fast (if chasing) and aim to bowl teams out or keep their totals low. Save wickets when needed but prefer rapid chases, improving the “overs left” part of NRR.”
Middle-Order Consistency Key
Another former JKCA cricketer, while praising J&K’s spirited victories earlier in the tournament, highlighted the need for stability.
“The batting unit must avoid collapses. The middle order, especially overs 8 to 15, will decide whether J&K put up defendable totals or chase with confidence.”
A Narrow Window, But Still Open
With Bihar already eliminated and Chandigarh and Maharashtra struggling for consistency, J&K’s destiny hinges on their next 80 overs of cricket.
“Two wins can change everything. The team must believe they can still qualify. The group remains open, but J&K must control what is in their hands: winning and winning with intent,” a former JKCA cricketer said.
J&K face Goa today in what is effectively their first knockout match of the season, with their hopes of progressing resting on clinical execution and NRR-boosting performances in both remaining fixtures.
