Ranji Trophy final Day 3: J&K take command, Karnataka reels under Nabi’s spell

Jammu & Kashmir took firm control of the Ranji Trophy Final on Day 3 against eight-time champions Karnataka at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground. After posting a massive first innings total of 584 , J&K’s bowlers dominated the proceedings, leaving Karnataka struggling at 220 for 5 by stumps. The match has now set up a tantalizing contest heading into Day 4.

The star of the day was undoubtedly Auqib Nabi , whose fiery opening spell dismantled Karnataka’s top order. He removed KL Rahul , Karun Nair , and Smaran Ravichandran in quick succession, reducing the defending champions to 57 for 4 . Nabi’s precision and pace put J&K firmly in the driver’s seat and highlighted his status as one of India’s emerging pace talents.

Despite the early collapse, Mayank Agarwal played a valiant innings, remaining unbeaten on 130 . Agarwal’s composed stroke play and partnership with Kruthik Krishna (27) provided some stability for Karnataka, ensuring they avoided a complete rout. However, with a deficit of 364 runs* , the team still faces a massive challenge to turn the tide.

J&K’s earlier innings was built on solid contributions from across the order. Shubham Pundir’s 121 , Yawer Hassan’s 88 , and handy half-centuries from Paras Dogra and Kanhaiya Wadhawan propelled the side to a total that now dominates the game. The all-round performance has not only given them a psychological edge but also placed them on the brink of their first-ever Ranji Trophy title.

As Day 4 approaches, Karnataka will need determined batting and perhaps some magic from their bowlers to reduce the deficit and keep their championship hopes alive. Meanwhile, J&K will aim to capitalize on their commanding position to edge closer to a historic triumph.