The Ranji Trophy final is often a marathon and the ongoing summit clash between Jammu and Kashmir and Karnataka is following this script. After J&K posted a high score of 584 in the first innings, Karnataka posted 35 at lunch on Day 3 but slipped to 98 for 4 in the second session.
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Although there is still plenty of game time, there is still a huge gap to overcome and a draw is still possible. However, unlike the league, the Ranji Trophy final must produce a winner. Thankfully, one key rule provides clarity: if no direct result occurs, the first-inning lead determines the championship.
Essentially, if neither side is able to knock the other out twice or chase down the target, the team with the higher first-inning total will be awarded the trophy. This ensures consistent performance over longer fixtures is rewarded, particularly in multi-day matches where weather or course conditions may not ultimately allow for completion.
Here are the results of the current finals:
Scenario 1 – Karnataka takes the lead in the first innings:
If Karnataka scores 585 or more runs to surpass J&K’s 584, they will gain a crucial first-innings advantage. Even if the match then ends in a draw, Karnataka will be crowned Ranji Trophy champions. It’s the South’s easiest path to the title, even if it requires overcoming a massive deficit.
Scenario 2 – Jammu and Kashmir remains ahead:
If Karnataka falls below 584, J&K will retain its first-innings advantage. In this case, Jammu and Kashmir will be declared the champions regardless of the remaining time or the result of the draw. Their strong batting performance and early bowling control have them in the lead at the moment.
Scenario 3 – External interrupt:
In the event of rain or other factors preventing Karnataka from completing the match and not establishing a first-innings lead, the rules of the game can default to points from the group stage or previous performance. Still, a first-inning lead is often decisive in the final.
584 in Jammu and Kashmir was built through disciplined partnership and low-level resistance, providing them with a strong platform. Their bowlers also applied early pressure in Karnataka’s reply, dislodging key batsmen KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Smaran Ravichandran and Karun Nair.
See also: IND vs. ZIM
