J&K Lead Crosses 500 as Qamran Iqbal Smashes Ton to Push Karnataka to The Brink of Defeat

Jammu and Kashmir are on the verge of making history in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final against Karnataka. On Day 5, star batter Qamran Iqbal smashed a century, bringing the team’s lead past 500 runs. J&K had earlier posted a massive 584 in their first innings, with Shubham Pundir contributing 121. Karnataka struggled in response, being bowled out for 293, despite Mayank Agarwal’s brilliant 160. Pace bowler Auqib Nabi’s five-wicket haul played a key role in restricting Karnataka.

In the ongoing second innings, Qamran Iqbal reached his hundred with a boundary off Shreyas Gopal. Sahil Lotra is unbeaten on 34, supporting the strong position of the team. J&K’s total lead has now crossed 500, virtually sealing their first-ever Ranji Trophy title. The morning session saw steady batting, with the focus on preserving wickets and increasing the lead. The team’s performance has drawn praise for its resilience and composure under pressure.

The KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground witnessed a historic moment as Qamran Iqbal’s century energised the team and fans. His knock came off 189 balls, including 12 boundaries, showcasing both skill and patience. The large first-innings lead has allowed Jammu and Kashmir to dominate the match strategically. Karnataka’s bowlers tried to make inroads, but disciplined batting kept the lead growing. The psychological advantage now lies firmly with J&K.

Also Read: Fan Grabs Messi by The Waist and Pulls Him Down During Inter Miami's Puerto Rico Friendly

With just a few wickets down in their second innings, J&K are cruising toward a historic triumph. The team needs minimal further contributions to secure the Ranji Trophy for the first time. The players have maintained focus despite Karnataka’s experienced bowlers, displaying strong character. Fans are witnessing a potential landmark achievement in Jammu and Kashmir cricket history. Celebrations seem imminent as the title nears confirmation.

This Ranji Trophy final has been defined by exceptional individual and team performances from Jammu and Kashmir. From Pundir’s first-innings century to Nabi’s bowling brilliance and now Iqbal’s hundred, the team has excelled in all departments. Karnataka’s fightback was limited to individual innings like Agarwal’s, but it could not challenge the dominant position of J&K. The historic win, if confirmed, will mark the rise of a new force in Indian domestic cricket.

Also Read: T20 WC 2026: Can New Zealand Still Make The T20 World Cup Semifinals After Losing to England?