New Delhi: The cricket fraternity came together to celebrate Jammu and Kashmir’s historic maiden Ranji Trophy victory as legends and administrators paid tributes to it.
Sachin Tendulkar hailed the moment as a beautiful turn of events for the region.
“Kashmir Willow has been part of the kit of many champions. It has been wonderful to see Jammu and Kashmir’s journey from being a promoter of the championship to becoming champions themselves,” he wrote on X.
Reflecting on the team’s season, he added: “This season has been built on consistency, resilience and excellence throughout the season. Auqib Nabi’s impact on the ball stood out in a demanding campaign.
“This is a historic moment for the team, coaches and support staff. Journeys like this define the beauty of domestic cricket.”
International ICC President Jay Shah also congratulated the team after their fairytale win over Karnataka in the Ranji final for the first time.
“Congratulations to the Indian Jammu and Kashmir team for writing a remarkable story of courage and perseverance. While the players fully deserve the praise they are receiving, we must also remember the contribution of the J&K coaching staff, management and administrators who worked hard behind the scenes to achieve this landmark achievement. I am confident that this victory will ignite faith in the hearts of the current generation in the region and inspire the next generation to pick up a bat or a ball. Our sport is replete with stories of inspiration from around the world and I hope this story too gets the admiration it deserves,” he wrote.
Mohammad Kaif shared: “This is a historic day for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. After leading UP to its first Ranji Trophy title, I know what this moment means to the players and the country. More players from J&K now believe they can do the same.”
Irfan Pathan posted: “Big congratulations to J&K cricket for creating history by winning its first Ranji Trophy. I never doubted that you will get this trophy and many more.”
Aakash Chopra wrote: “Jammu and Kashmir, you are beautiful. This is a story for the ages. We are extremely happy for what our boys have achieved. Indian cricket is in a safe and happy place.”
Shikhar Dhawan added: “A historic moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. The inaugural Ranji Trophy title was built on faith, strong leadership from Paras Dogra and a stellar season from Auqib Nabi. Huge contribution from Shubham Pundir, Yawer Hassan, Qamran Iqbal, Sahil Lotra, Abdul Samad and the entire team. A proud moment.”
Harbhajan Singh said: “The will to win is what matters. What a great day for Jammu and Kashmir. Well done and well done, winning the Ranji Trophy was not easy at all. They have played great cricket all season and played like a unit: many congratulations and many more trophies to come. It’s great to see cricket growing in Jammu and Kashmir.”
Yuvraj Singh posted: “Unbelievable! History has been written today! Huge congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir for winning the #RanjiTrophy title for the first time after 67 years! Ruling Karnataka with sheer grit, heart and unbreakable spirit. The fire of #AuqibNabi, the masterclass of #QamranIqbal and the belief of the entire team and training staff make us extremely proud! J&K Cricket has arrived! Keep shining, boys!”
Suresh Raina simply wrote: “Congratulations to Jammu and Kashmir for winning Ranji Trophy for the first time.” For the first time, Jammu and Kashmir was crowned Ranji Trophy winner. A landmark moment for the country and domestic cricket! Well done team, well deserved indeed. “
