60-wicket season earns praise; role in J&K’s historic title win highlighted
Irfan Yattoo
Baramulla: Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy hero Aqib Nabi Dar was on Wednesday felicitated by the Baramulla Cricket Forum (BCF) and Baramulla Cricket Association (BCA) for his standout performances in the 2025–26 domestic season, with speakers highlighting his pivotal role in the Union Territory’s maiden title triumph.
The felicitation ceremony, attended by players, officials, and sports enthusiasts, was presided over by Major General Manoj Joshi, General Officer Commanding of the 19 Infantry Division, who was the chief guest.
He honoured Dar and described his achievements as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the region.
Dar, a fast-rising talent from Baramulla, played a decisive role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic Ranji Trophy win its first in 67 years. In the final against Karnataka, he delivered a match-defining spell, claiming five wickets for 54 runs in 23 overs to bowl out the opposition for 293 and help secure a massive first-innings lead of 291 runs. The lead ultimately proved decisive as J&K, playing their maiden final, were crowned champions.
Led by Paras Dogra, the J&K side scripted history, overcoming eight-time champions Karnataka, captained by Devdutt Padikkal.
Dar finished the season as the highest wicket-taker in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2025–26 edition, claiming 60 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 12.57, including seven five-wicket hauls and two four-wicket spells.
Officials said Dar’s consistency and ability to deliver under pressure have elevated his stature in domestic cricket and brought national attention to the region’s emerging talent pool.
The chief guest also lauded the efforts of BCF and BCA in promoting cricket at the grassroots level and providing a platform for youth to excel in sports.
Speaking on the occasion, Dar expressed gratitude to the association, his teammates and coaches for their support. He said the Ranji Trophy triumph was a dream come true and credited the team’s unity and hard work for the historic achievement. Dar added that he remains focused on improving his game and aims to bring more laurels to Jammu and Kashmir.
The chief guest also lauded the efforts of BCF and BCA in promoting cricket at the grassroots level and providing a platform for youth
On the occasion, Hilal Ahmed Zargar and Muzaffar Mattoo were also felicitated for their contributions to the development of cricket in Baramulla. Certificates were distributed among members of the women’s cricket team, underlining growing participation in the sport.
The ceremony also witnessed the unveiling of the BCF Cup trophy and concluded with a vote of thanks and a group photograph.
