SYED MUSHTAQ ALI TROPHY 2026: J&K gear up for SMAT opener, Auqib, Umran, Yudhvir in focus
Srinagar, Nov 25: As the Ranji Trophy 2025–26 takes a mid-season break, the spotlight now shifts to India’s premier domestic T20 championship, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), beginning November 26, 2025.
For Jammu & Kashmir, who will play against Maharashtra today at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the transition from red-ball cricket to T20s comes at a crucial juncture. The team had generated solid momentum in the Ranji Trophy first phase, and the big question now is whether they can carry that rhythm into the shortest format.
Speaking to Greater Kashmir, a veteran J&K cricketer expressed confidence that the shift will not trouble the squad.
“The T20 game is all about good powerplay and finishing strong. J&K has six all-rounders, solid bowling depth, and a balanced squad. The format change won’t be a problem; they have been practising white-ball skills for days,” he said.
When asked about key performers, he hinted at the potential impact of known hitters: “In T20s, anyone can fire on the day. Yes, Samad, Qamran, and Shubham are known short-format players, but it is all about who clicks.”
On Umran Malik, who has struggled in the longer format this season, he remained optimistic and said, “It is just four overs here. White-ball suits him, and he can make a strong comeback.”
He added that Auqib Nabi, despite being a stronger red-ball bowler, has the skill set to adapt to T20s.
Former J&K skipper Samiullah Beigh believes the biggest challenge is mental and physical adjustment.
“The toughest part is shifting formats, but modern cricket demands adaptability. J&K have power players suited to T20s. If team culture stays healthy and the best XI is backed consistently, they can beat big sides too.”
A source confirmed that white-ball specialists are likely to feature prominently in the first match. “Most likely, Umran will play; it is a white-ball game. And Yudhvir Singh, coming fresh from India A, is almost certain in the playing XI.”
The insider also confirmed Auqib Nabi’s inclusion, acknowledging his strong form.
Among all J&K players, the spotlight will burn brightest on Auqib Nabi, whose consistency in the Ranji Trophy has already drawn national attention.
As per the cricket observers, the SMAT presents a golden opportunity, stating that a strong T20 showing could elevate his prospects for the IPL auctions and possibly the national selectors’ radar.
Shabir Ahmad, a cricket enthusiast, said that cricket fans across J&K will be watching closely to see whether the all-rounder can extend his red-ball dominance into the shorter format.
