The domestic cricket season in India has reached its crescendo. The historic KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground will play host to a David vs. Goliath story that has captured the imagination of the cricket fraternity: Karnataka against Jammu and Kashmir in the final Ranji Trophy 2025-26.
It’s not just a match; it is a clash of eras and regions. On one side stands Karnataka, a perennial powerhouse trying to recapture its former glory. On the other hand, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), the ultimate underdog, gave a historic maiden appearance in the summit clash. As the dew settles on the Hubli track, the weight of history will be felt by all 22 players on the field.
Contrasting journeys of Jammu and Kashmir and Karnataka to the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 Final
Karnataka’s journey to the final has been a clinical display of depth and dominance. under his leadership Devdutt Padikkalthey got through a grueling season with the efficiency of a well-oiled machine. supported by the return of experienced international stars such as KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal topped the Karnataka groups in the main stages and crushed their opponents in the play-off rounds with a balanced pace and spin attack. Their campaign is defined by finding a hero in each session, be that as it may Karun Nair average order or Vidhwath Kaverappa bouncing on unresponsive tracks.
In contrast, Jammu and Kashmir’s path to the 2025-26 finals is the stuff of folklore. Long regarded as a side that could be upset but lacked consistency, J&K have turned into a ruthless unit this season. Led by a veteran Paras Dograthey displayed a never-say-die attitude, winning important away games in difficult circumstances. Their journey has been marked by disciplined bowling efforts and often modest results, proving that their presence in the final was not a fluke but a result of systematic growth and individual brilliance.
Also READ: Explained: Why was Ranji Trophy final moved from Bengaluru to Hubballi?
5 players to watch out for in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 final
While team tactics are key, these five men have the form and temperament to change the course of a Ranji Trophy final.
- Smaran Ravichandran (Karnataka)
If there’s a breakout star tag for this season, it belongs Smaran Ravichandran. With an amazing average of 95.00 in 8 matches, Smaran has been the backbone of Karnataka’s batting. He scored 950 runs, including an unbeaten 227, showing his ability to bat for long periods without losing concentration. In a lineup that featured superstars, Smaran was often the one holding the innings together. His strike rate of 62.58 shows that he knows exactly when to accelerate, making him the biggest obstacle for the J&K bowlers.
- Paras Dogra (Jammu and Kashmir)
The J&K captain is a living legend of Ranji Trophy. Dogra recently etched his name in the history books and became the second batsman after the seniors Wasim Jafarto cross the 10,000-run mark in a tournament. His experience is J&K’s greatest asset. The Dogra is not just a work machine; he is the emotional and tactical anchor of the team. His ability to handle Karnataka’s international-quality pace attack in a high-pressure final Prasidh Krishna and Vijay Kumar Vishakwill likely determine whether J&K can post a competitive total.
- Karun Nair (Karnataka)
Man for the big occasion, Karun Nairremains as deadly as ever. Having amassed 699 runs at an average of 63.54 this season, Nair brings a sense of inevitability to the crease. His highest score of 233 this year is reminiscent of his three-century pedigree. Nair’s game is built on fine footwork against spin and watertight defence. For J&K to win, they need to find a way to get Nair out early or he will knock them out of the competition within two days.
- Auqib Nabi (Jammu and Kashmir)
If J&K score 20 goals in Hubli, Augib Nabi will be the main character. Nabi scored 55 goals in 9 matches this season and collected an incredible average of 12.72 points. His ability to move the ball to both sides at high speed has rattled the best batsmen in the country. With two 5-wicket hauls and a best of 7/24, he is a major threat to Karnataka’s top order. His battle against the likes of Mayank and Rahul will be the most awaited contest of the opening session.
- Shreyas Gopal (Karnataka)
In the second half of the five-day match, the spinner usually decides the fate of the trophy. Shreyas Gopal he has been Karnataka’s trump card, balancing his role as a wicketkeeper and a bowler. Gopal, who scored 46 at an average of 19.30, rediscovered the drift and spin that made him famous. Additionally, his low-end hitting assistance cannot be ignored. In a tight final, his ability to break partnerships and contribute 40-50 runs with the tail could be the marginal difference between the two sides.
Also READ: Meet Auqib Nabi: The Jammu and Kashmir paceman who led his team to a historic Ranji Trophy final
