Historic Ranji Trophy Final Begins: Karnataka Take on J&K in Hubli

 

 Karnataka Return to the Final After 11 Years

 

 The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final between Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir begins at KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubli on February 24, 2026. This Ranji Trophy Final is a landmark occasion — Karnataka are playing their 15th final, aiming to win their ninth title, while Jammu & Kashmir appear in the summit clash for the very first time in their cricketing history. Karnataka last appeared in a Ranji Trophy Final eleven years ago and arrive as clear favourites given the calibre of their squad.

 

 Karnataka's Star-Studded Lineup

 

 Karnataka's Ranji Trophy squad boasts some of India's most experienced cricketers. KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal (captain), Mayank Agarwal, Karun Nair, and Prasidh Krishna lend an international class to their Ranji Trophy campaign. R Smaran has been the standout performer of the season, compiling 950 runs at an average of 95. Shreyas Gopal leads the bowling with 46 wickets and 442 runs in the Ranji Trophy tournament. Karnataka's batting depth and experience make them formidable opponents in this Ranji Trophy Final.

 

 J&K's Dream Run Continues

 

 Jammu & Kashmir have produced one of the most inspiring stories in Ranji Trophy history. Auqib Nabi's 55 wickets at an average of 12.72 have been the driving force behind their run to the Ranji Trophy Final. Abdul Samad has been their top scorer with 655 runs, and captain Paras Dogra's leadership has been calm and composed. J&K defeated Bengal in the semi-final and earlier knocked out Madhya Pradesh in emphatic style throughout the Ranji Trophy season.

 

 What to Expect Over Five Days

 

 The Ranji Trophy Final is scheduled over five days (February 24-28). Karnataka's bowling attack, led by Prasidh Krishna and the spin of Shreyas Gopal, is expected to be their trump card. Jammu & Kashmir will rely heavily on Auqib Nabi to create early breakthroughs. The Ranji Trophy Final promises to be an absorbing red-ball contest between a battle-hardened giant and a team with everything to prove.