Ranji Trophy final: J&K take command against Karnataka on Day 2

Jammu & Kashmir strengthened their position in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2025-26 Final against Karnataka , finishing Day 2 at 527 for 6 in 156 overs at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground . After winning the toss and electing to bat, J&K extended their first-innings total, putting pressure firmly on the defending champions.

Paras Dogra led from the front with a resilient 70 off 166 balls , anchoring crucial partnerships with fellow batters Sahil Lotra and Abid Mushtaq . Lotra contributed a stylish 57 , while Mushtaq remained unbeaten on 20 at stumps, ensuring that J&K ended the day in a commanding position. Despite taking a few quick wickets earlier, Karnataka’s bowlers were unable to break the steady middle-order stand.

The day, however, was marred by a rare on-field controversy . Jammu & Kashmir captain Paras Dogra lost his temper and headbutted a Karnataka fielder during play, sparking a confrontation that required intervention from umpires and players from both sides. The incident overshadowed part of the action and drew attention across the stadium.

Rain and deteriorating light conditions forced the umpires to call off play with over an hour still remaining. Earlier, Karnataka’s seamers, including Vijaykumar Vyshak and Prasidh Krishna , had bowled with precision, exploiting the early movement, but J&K’s experienced middle order steadied the innings with a 110-run partnership .

With a massive total on the board, J&K now hold a significant advantage, while Karnataka will need a disciplined bowling performance and early breakthroughs to turn the match in their favor. Day 3 promises a high-stakes continuation as the contest for India’s premier domestic trophy intensifies.