 Early Times Report
Jammu, Mar 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for scripting history by winning their maiden Ranji Trophy title, describing the achievement as a moment of pride for the entire nation.
In the 132nd edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister also expressed pride over India’s victory in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, noting that the recent successes have generated immense enthusiasm among cricket fans across the country.
“This month has been full of excitement and enthusiasm for cricket lovers. India’s historic victory in the T20 World Cup brought immense joy to the nation. We are all very proud of our team’s thumping success,” he said.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s achievement, Modi said the team’s triumph in the Ranji Trophy marked a historic milestone after decades of perseverance.
“Late last month, a thrilling match was witnessed in Hubballi, Karnataka. By winning this match, the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team secured the Ranji Trophy. It is heartening that, after nearly seven decades, the team has won its first title,” he said.
The Prime Minister attributed the success to years of consistent effort by the players and praised the contributions of key performers.
“Team captain Paras Dogra displayed exceptional leadership and played a significant role in the victory. Young Kashmiri bowler Aaqib Nabi, who took 60 wickets in the tournament, has drawn nationwide attention,” he said.
He said the victory has not only boosted the morale of the players and coaching staff but has also inspired people across Jammu and Kashmir.
“This achievement will encourage more young people to take up sports. The region has tremendous sporting talent and passion,” he added.
Modi also noted that Jammu and Kashmir is emerging as a hub for sporting activities, with Gulmarg hosting events like the Khelo India Winter Games, while sports such as football continue to gain popularity among the youth.
As reported earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team clinched their maiden Ranji Trophy title on February 28, defeating a strong Karnataka side at the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) Ground in Hubballi.
The team was declared winner on the basis of a decisive first-innings lead, with the final ending in a draw. J&K were 324 for four in their second innings when both teams agreed to conclude play on the fifth day, sealing the championship.
The magnitude of the achievement was reflected in the widespread praise it received from top leadership, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.
Jammu and Kashmir played their first Ranji Trophy match in 1960, but had to wait until 1982 to register their first win in the tournament. Over the past decade, the team has steadily improved, reaching the quarterfinals in the 2013–14, 2019–20, and 2024–25 seasons.
From being underdogs to lifting the coveted trophy, the triumph stands as a testament to grit, determination, and the region’s growing cricketing stature.
Soon after the victory, Prime Minister Modi congratulated the team on social media, calling it a “historic triumph” that reflects the players’ grit, discipline, and passion.
“It is a proud moment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and highlights the region’s growing sporting talent. May this feat inspire many young athletes to dream big,” he said.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended his congratulations, describing the victory as a moment of immense pride and a reflection of the aspirations and changing identity of the youth in Jammu and Kashmir. |