Srinagar, Feb 28 (KNO): Cutting across the lines, every section of the society, including former cricketers, politicians and others congratulated Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for winning its maiden Ranji Trophy title by defeating eight-time champions Karnataka on Saturday.
The victory not only ended a 66-year wait but also triggered celebrations across the Union Territory, marking a defining chapter in J&K’s sporting journey.
As per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), ICC Chairperson JayShah wrote on X: “Congratulations to the Jammu & Kashmir team in India for scripting a remarkable story of grit and perseverance. While the players are fully deserving of the adulation they receive, one must also remember the contribution of the coaching staff, management and administrators from J&K who have toiled behind the scenes to fashion this landmark achievement. I am sure that this win will ignite belief in the hearts of the current generation from the region and drive the next one to pick up a bat or ball. Our sport is rich with such stories of inspiration from around the world and I hope this one also receives its fair share of admiration.”
"Heartiest Congratulations to J&K Cricket Team for winning its maiden Ranji Trophy at Hubli today...it is a classic instance of how well the game of cricket is spread across India despite challenging conditions. Relentless efforts of BCCI & its former Secretary & present ICC Chair Mr @JayShah 's vision laid the roadmap, through a 3- members Sub- Committee in place since June,'21 till date to manage cricket activities, has has made the glorious success possible... Indian Cricket continues to flourish!" Devajit LON Saikia secretary BCCI said in a post on 'X'.
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar described the journey as “beautiful,” highlighting the team’s consistency and resilience, and singling out Auqib Nabi’s standout performance.
"The Kashmir willows have been a part of many champions' kits. To see Jammu & Kashmir's journey from being an enabler of champions, to becoming champions themselves, is beautiful.
The season was built on consistency, resilience, and season-long excellence. Auqib Nabi's impact with the ball stood out in a demanding campaign. A historic moment for the team, coaches, and support staff. Journeys like these define the beauty of domestic cricket," said Tendulkar on 'X'
Union Minister Jitendra Singh and several other leaders also extended their congratulations, calling the victory a proud moment for the entire nation. "You made it boys! You've made history!
Heartiest congratulations to the #JammuAndKashmir cricket team for this remarkable Ranji Trophy victory. You have not only made everyone proud but also vindicated the trust reposed in you by your selectors and vindicated also the departure from the past considerations that determined the earlier selections," he said in a post on 'X'.
Jammu and Kashmir Police in its congratulatory message said,
“J&K cricket team has made everyone proud.”
The Awami Itihaad Party (AIP), through its Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, termed the achievement a “defining moment” for J&K’s youth. The party noted that the victory reflects the resilience and talent of young cricketers and called for further investment in sports infrastructure and grassroots development.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) also hailed the triumph as a moment of immense pride. The Chamber stressed that the success demonstrates the importance of merit-based selection and professional governance in sports.
KCC&I urged authorities to upgrade key sporting venues such as Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, Polo Ground, Bakshi Stadium, and other district-level facilities, emphasizing the need for world-class infrastructure to nurture emerging talent.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti described the triumph as a “rare moment of joy” and a powerful symbol of unity, noting that the team’s diverse composition reflects the strength of collective effort.
"Today’s stupendous success of the Jammu & Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy has given the people a rare moment of joy after a long time. This victory is also a powerful reply to those forces that seek to divide our society on religious lines.The triumph was made possible by the united effort of a team made up of both Hindu and Muslim players proving once again that unity is our greatest strength. Together we rise, together we succeed, and today’s win is a reminder to the world that the spirit of J&K can never be broken." Mehbooba said in a post on 'X'.
Other political leaders, including Sajad Lone and Altaf Bukhari, also congratulated the team, calling the victory a long-awaited achievement and a source of pride for every citizen of Jammu & Kashmir.
"Jammu and Kashmir finally are the champions of cricket in the country. Congratulations to the team. Congratulations to the team management. And congratulations to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. What a long wait it has been." Said PC president Sajad Lone on 'X'.
"Heartfelt greetings to Team J&K for winning their first-ever Ranji Trophy title. This remarkable triumph marks a historic milestone not only for the team but for the entire people of the Union Territory. This is truly a moment of celebration and pride, representing a historic achievement. I congratulate each and every member of the team, as well as everyone who played a role in this tremendous victory. May this historic accomplishment be the beginning of many more successes in the years to come." Said Altaf Bukhari, President Apni Party on X
Heartiest Congratulations to our Jammu & Kashmir team on winning the Ranji Trophy Final.Our team has made the entire Jammu Kashmir proud with their hard work and determination. This historic victory belongs to every citizen of J&K. Proud moment for all of us!" said LOP Sunil Sharma in a post on 'X'.
Having made their debut in India’s premier domestic competition nearly seven decades ago, Jammu & Kashmir had come close to glory in previous seasons but never crossed the final hurdle—until now.
This historic win not only places J&K firmly on India’s cricketing map but also serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for thousands of aspiring sportspersons across the region.
Hakeem Yaseen President of the People’s Democratic Front (PDF) congratulated the Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for scripting history by lifting the Ranji Trophy title for the first time in the Union Territory’s history.
In a statement issued here, Hakeem Yaseen termed the victory as a “landmark moment” for Jammu and Kashmir’s sporting fraternity and said the triumph would inspire generations of young cricketers across the region.
Former J&K Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad in his congratulatory message wrote on X: “A triumph of talent , grit and discipline that makes the entire nation proud. May this be the first of many such achievements.”—(KNO)