Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made a huge announcement for the state’s cricket team after they pulled off a stunning win against eight-time champions Karnataka to clinch their very first Ranji Trophy. Abdullah stepped up with a cash reward of ₹2 crore for the players and support staff.
This win finally broke a 67-year dry spell since the team started back in 1959. Abdullah called it a “watershed moment,” and it’s got the whole region buzzing with pride and hope. And it’s not just about the money. The Chief Minister also said every player on the winning squad now gets a shot at government jobs, thanks to the Union Territory’s new rules for top athletes.
CM Omar Abdullah Announces ₹2 Crore Reward And Government Jobs
Jammu and Kashmir’s cricket team just pulled off something huge, and the reward matches the moment. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah actually rushed to Hubballi to watch the last day himself, then jumped on X to announce a ₹2 crore prize for the team.
Congratulating Team J&K on their historic triumph in the Ranji Trophy, the Chief Minister announced a cash reward of ₹2 crore for the players and support staff after their emphatic victory over Karnataka on their home turf.
Calling it a watershed moment for Jammu & Kashmir… pic.twitter.com/OnRJCa1EoB
— Office of Chief Minister, J&K (@CM_JnK) February 28, 2026
The money goes to all 15 players and the support staff who helped them go unbeaten all season. But that’s not all. Abdullah also promised government jobs for the players who starred in that final at Hubballi, making sure their future’s set long after the celebrations die down.
Jammu & Kashmir Ranji Trophy 2025-2026 Performance
Jammu and Kashmir stormed their way to the 2026 title by playing tough, fearless cricket and knocking out some of the biggest names in the domestic game. In the final against Karnataka, they set the tone early, piling up a huge 584 runs in the first innings.
Shubham Pundir stood out, hammering a gutsy 121. Karnataka fought back behind Mayank Agarwal’s fighting 160, but J&K’s bowlers, with Auqib Nabi Dar leading the charge, never let up. They grabbed a commanding 291-run lead after the first innings and never looked back.
Jammu & Kashmir Ranji Trophy 2025-2026 Key Players
| Player | Contribution |
| Auqib Nabi Dar | 60 Wickets (Season) |
| Shubham Pundir | 121 (Finals) |
| Qamran Iqbal | 160* (Finals) |
| Sahil Lotra | 101* (Finals) |
| Paras Dogra | 10,000+ Career Runs |
Also Read: Ranji Trophy Winners List: From 1934–35 to 2025–26 After Jammu & Kashmir’s Historic Maiden Title
