Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: J&K beat Bihar by 34 runs

Srinagar, Nov 30: Jammu & Kashmir registered their second win of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite stage, defeating Bihar by 34 runs at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with a commanding show from pace ace Auqib Nabi and another solid outing from opener Qamran Iqbal. But concern continues to grow around Vivrant Sharma, whose extended lean patch is beginning to weigh heavily on the team’s top order.

After winning the toss, J&K opted to bat first, and once again it was Qamran who anchored the innings. The right-hander compiled a classy 64 off 40 balls, setting up a platform despite losing his partner Vivrant for a duck. Vivrant, who has now repeatedly been backed at the top, failed to capitalise yet again, raising pressing questions about his form and consistency.

With skipper Shubham Khajuria unavailable due to a wrist injury sustained in the previous game against Uttar Pradesh, Yawer Hassan earned a call and justified it instantly. The young batter chipped in with a valuable 27 off 22 balls, showing composure and intent. However, Musaif Ajaz’s struggles continued, as he managed only three.

J&K eventually posted 159/9 in 20 overs.

In reply, Bihar looked unsettled from the start, and the destroyer-in-chief was none other than Auqib Nabi. The right-arm seamer delivered one of the spells of the tournament, showcasing exceptional control, swing, and discipline. His figures, 4 wickets for just 16 runs in 4 overs with 2 maidens, ensured Bihar never settled into the chase.

Umran Malik, on the other hand, had a difficult outing, conceding 50 runs in his four overs while picking up a lone wicket. Yudhvir Singh and M Ashwin struck twice each, while left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq delivered another economical spell, giving away just 16 runs in his full quota.

Bihar were restricted to 125/9, handing J&K a comfortable 34-run victory and strengthening their push in the tournament. Auqib was declared man of the match for his bowling performance.

While the win was convincing and Auqib’s brilliance continues to carry J&K’s bowling, the contrasting fortunes of Qamran and Vivrant at the top remain a key talking point. Qamran’s consistency has been a major boost, but Vivrant’s ongoing slump adds pressure as the tournament progresses.

J&K will hope their in-form performers keep the momentum going, and with the persistent poor batting show from Vivrant and Musaif, selectors may consider roping in Nasir Lone and Kawalpreet Singh.