Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Jammu and Kashmir shocks Mumbai by five wickets inside three days
Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Jammu and Kashmir shocks Mumbai by five wickets inside three days
Jammu and Kashmir made history on Saturday by defeating a star-studded Mumbai side by five wickets, moving one step closer to the Ranji Trophy knockouts.
A decade ago, a young J&K team had stunned the domestic powerhouse, and this time, the visitor repeated its dominance. Despite a gritty century from Shardul Thakur, J&K secured six valuable points with a spirited performance. On the other hand, this loss has jeopardised Mumbai’s hopes of making it to the next stage.
At the MCA-BKC ground, Mumbai extended its lead to 204 runs, thanks to a remarkable 184-run partnership for the eighth wicket between Shardul and Tanush Kotian. However, Yudhvir Singh cleaned up the tail efficiently, finishing the game with seven wickets.
Chasing 205, J&K lost opener Yawer Hassan early, but experienced campaigners Shubham Khajuria and Vivrant Sharma steadied the innings with a crucial 75-run partnership for the second wicket, setting the tone for the chase.
As the pitch eased out during the day, J&K appeared to be cruising to victory. However, Mumbai’s seasoned spinner Shams Mulani (4 for 54) turned the game on its head with a flurry of quick wickets.
Khajuria’s attempt to step out against Mulani proved costly as his stumps were rattled. In Mulani’s next over, Vivrant was tempted into going for a big hit but was caught at long-on by Mohit Avasthi.
Instead of panicking, the J&K batters tried to counter-attack. However, this approach backfired as poor shot selection saw Abdul Samad and captain Paras Dogra fall to Mulani in quick succession.
From a strong position at 112 for 1, the visitor suddenly found itself struggling at 159 for 5. With the momentum swinging Mumbai’s way and the hundred-odd spectators cheering on the home team, J&K needed a calm head to guide the chase.
That calmness came from Abid Mushtaq and wicketkeeper-batter Kanhaiya Wadhawan, who ensured there were no further slip-ups. Mushtaq released the pressure with a series of boundaries, while Wadhawan contributed with some well-timed fours.
As both batters grew in confidence, Mumbai’s bowlers lost their grip. Just before Tea, Mushtaq sealed the victory in emphatic fashion, launching a six off Kotian. His teammates gave him a standing ovation as J&K celebrated a historic win.
