As J&K nears Ranji Trophy win, Omar heads to Karnataka to cheer for the home team; BJP and PDP extend support

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah headed for Karnataka on Friday to cheer for the J&K cricket team that is on the verge of lifting its maiden Ranji Trophy title 67 years after making its debut in the tournament.

Playing against Karnataka in the summit clash of the nation’s prestigious domestic cricket competition, J&K was in a commanding position on the penultimate day of the five-day contest, securing a 477-run lead at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubbali.

Cutting across the political divide, regional parties from the Union Territory extended messages of support to the J&K team with representation from all subregions, including the Kashmir Valley, Pir Panjal Valley, Chenab Valley, and plains of Jammu.

Onboard a flight to Hubbali, Mr. Abdullah posted on social media handles a picture of himself along with ruling National Conference leaders.

“On our way to Hubli to cheer for the J&K cricket team as they play the final of the Ranji Trophy. They’ve already made lakhs of people so very proud of their achievements by reaching the final. I’m really looking forward to spending the day tomorrow in the stands cheering them on,” Mr. Abdullah said in a post on X.

Senior BJP leader and Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh was also elated. “Best wishes to the spirited team of J&K for their outstanding performance in the ongoing Ranji Trophy. Your grit, discipline, and determination on the field have made the entire region proud,” he said.

‘No divisions’

Peoples Democratic Party MLA Waheed Ur Rehman Parra said the team “is not just winning but showing the way”. He said there were no divisions on the field as “Hindus and Muslims stood shoulder to shoulder, playing for one badge, one dream”.

He also praised J&K bowler Auqib Nabi, who has claimed 60 wickets so far to become the leading wicket-taker of the current Ranji Trophy campaign. “Auqib Nabi’s name now echoes beyond the boundary ropes. Your journey inspires not just aspiring cricketers, but an entire generation searching for light,” Mr. Parra said.

Netizens are also cheering for the team. “The Ranji Trophy final. For so long, it felt like a dream so distant it might never come. And now, look. The impossible dream is a living, breathing reality,” said author and sports expert Humayun Qaisar in a social media post.