Ranji Trophy: Self-Belief Behind Jammu Kashmir’s Rise, Says Ex-Ranji Cricketer | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: Former Director of All India Radio Srinagar and ex Ranji cricketer Syed Himayun Qaiser has termed Jammu and Kashmir’s entry into the Ranji Trophy final a landmark achievement, stating that the team’s rise is the result of sustained consistency, improved facilities and growing self belief.

Recalling his playing days, Qaiser said the team earlier used to get only three or four matches in a season, making it difficult to achieve anything significant. He said that reaching a Ranji final was not even in anyone’s imagination at that time. However, he noted that performances over the past three years, including victories against top sides despite not progressing beyond the quarterfinals, indicated that the team was capable of achieving something major.

He said the side has evolved in handling pressure situations. Even after conceding a first innings lead or suffering collapses, the team has repeatedly bounced back in the second innings. He described self belief as the biggest transformation within the squad.

Qaiser praised pacer Auqib Nabi for spearheading the attack, calling his performances phenomenal. He said the number of wickets he has taken and the matches he has won make it difficult for selectors to ignore him. He remarked that while some question his pace, movement and consistency matter more, drawing comparisons with international bowlers who relied on skill rather than sheer speed. He added that sharing the dressing room with established players would further sharpen Auqib’s abilities. Qaiser expressed disappointment that the bowler was not considered earlier for India A or included in the central contract list, though he welcomed his recent IPL recognition.

He said contributions have come from across the squad, including batters and bowlers, and noted that fielding standards have improved significantly compared to earlier times when catching was a weak area. He also acknowledged the performances of left arm pacer Sunil and batter Shubham Khajuria, and credited the coach and senior team member Paras Dogra for their role in guiding the side.

On facilities, Qaiser said conditions for players have improved considerably, with better salaries, travel arrangements and diet. He contrasted this with earlier days when players often did not receive match fees on time. At the same time, he criticised the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association for limited infrastructure, pointing out that there is still only one turf wicket in Kashmir and two in Jammu. He also said that opportunities are largely confined to a fixed pool of 40 to 50 players, despite the presence of talent beyond that group.

Commenting on the final against Karnataka, he suggested including an experienced batter such as Qamran Iqbal, noting Karnataka’s history of reaching Ranji finals. He said Jammu and Kashmir can win the title but will need an exceptional performance.

He urged the team to continue believing in itself to make the occasion even more historic. (GNS)