The stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying conclusion to the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season, as Karnataka lock horns with Jammu and Kashmir in the grand final. The prestigious KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubballi will host this highly anticipated clash, scheduled to run from February 24th to February 28th. For Karnataka, this match represents a significant opportunity to claim their ninth Ranji Trophy title, a testament to their storied history in domestic cricket. Conversely, Jammu and Kashmir are on the cusp of creating history, aiming to secure their maiden triumph in this premier first-class competition.
Karnataka’s journey to the final marks their return after an 11-year hiatus, and they will undoubtedly enter the contest as firm favourites. Their extensive experience in high-pressure situations, coupled with the presence of seasoned match-winners, positions them strongly. However, the narrative of this season has been significantly shaped by the remarkable and unexpected consistency displayed by Jammu and Kashmir. They have defied expectations, navigating through the tournament with a tenacity that has captured the attention of the cricketing fraternity.
Key Performers to Watch
The final promises a showcase of individual brilliance from both sides. For the formidable Karnataka squad, Ravichandran Smaran has been in sensational form, amassing an incredible 950 runs at a stellar average of 95. His consistent run-scoring has been a cornerstone of Karnataka’s batting lineup. Alongside Smaran, Karun Nair has also been a significant contributor, posting 699 runs at an impressive average of 65.54, showcasing his experience and ability to anchor an innings.
Jammu and Kashmir, on the other hand, have relied heavily on the explosive batting of Abdul Samad. He has managed to score 655 runs across nine matches, maintaining a strong average of 59.54. His ability to change the course of a game with his aggressive stroke play will be crucial for his team. On the bowling front, Auqib Nabi has been the undisputed star for Jammu and Kashmir, tearing through opposition batting lineups. He has claimed a remarkable 55 wickets at an exceptional average of 12.72, making him a genuine threat to Karnataka’s batsmen.
Match Details: When and Where to Tune In
The Ranji Trophy final between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled to commence on February 24th. The action will unfold at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground in Hubli, a venue known for its sporting nature.
For fans eager to follow the drama unfold, Star Sports will be broadcasting the final live across its network. The live streaming of this pivotal encounter will also be available on JioHotstar, ensuring that supporters can catch every boundary, wicket, and moment of brilliance from wherever they are. The match is slated to begin at 9:30 AM IST each day, promising a full day of enthralling cricket.
Squads Assembled for the Grand Finale
Jammu and Kashmir Squad:
* Shubham Khajuria
* Yawer Hassan
* Shubham Pundir
* Paras Dogra (c)
* Abdul Samad
* Kanhaiya Wadhawan (w)
* Abid Mushtaq
* Vanshaj Sharma
* Auqib Nabi Dar
* Yudhvir Singh Charak
* Sunil Kumar
* Umar Nazir Mir
* Rohit K Sharma
* Qamran Iqbal
* Musaif Ajaz
* Mujtaba Yousuf
* Umran Malik
* Vivrant Sharma
* Lone Nasir Muzaffar
* Sahil Lotra
* Dikshant Kundal
Karnataka Squad:
* KL Rahul
* Mayank Agarwal
* Devdutt Padikkal (c)
* Karun Nair
* Smaran Ravichandran
* Shreyas Gopal
* Kruthik Krishna (w)
* Vidyadhar Patil
* Vijaykumar Vyshak
* Shikhar Shetty
* Prasidh Krishna
* Vidhwath Kaverappa
* Aneesh KV
* Mohsin Khan
* Muralidhara Venkatesh
* Krishnan Shrijith
* Dhruv Prabhakar
This final is more than just a game; it’s a narrative of experience versus aspiration, of established dominance against a rising force. The cricketing world will be watching with bated breath to see who will lift the coveted Ranji Trophy.
