New Delhi, November 11: In a day that mixed high tension in the city with history on the field, Jammu & Kashmir pulled off their first-ever Ranji Trophy victory over Delhi, winning by seven wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday. The match was played under tight security, following Monday’s deadly car explosion near the Red Fort that killed eight people and injured several others.
The proximity of the blast site—just a few kilometres from the stadium—led to an extensive security operation around the venue. The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) coordinated with police to conduct rigorous checks at gates, restrict vehicle access, and deploy additional security personnel through the final day’s play.
Despite the heightened alert, the visitors held their nerve on the field. Chasing 179 for victory, opener Qamran Iqbal produced a match-winning knock of 133 not out, steering Jammu & Kashmir to 181/3 and sealing a historic seven-wicket win — their first over Delhi in 64 years of Ranji Trophy history.
Earlier, J&K’s bowlers had restricted Delhi to 211 in the first innings and 277 in the second, while contributions from Henan Nazir and Abid Mushtaq helped the side secure a vital lead. Delhi’s batters struggled for consistency, with only Yash Dhull offering resistance in their second innings.
The victory earned Jammu & Kashmir six crucial points, lifting them to the top half of Elite Group D, while Delhi were left ruing another home defeat. “This win means a lot for our team and fans. To do it here in Delhi makes it even more special,” said skipper Shubham Khajuria, dedicating the triumph to “the spirit of resilience in trying times.”
As celebrations unfolded quietly on the field, the police presence remained heavy outside, with Delhi Police confirming that surveillance and patrols would continue near central landmarks and stadiums in the coming days.
With cricket and security forces both performing under pressure, the day at Kotla will be remembered as one where courage and calm defined victory—both on and off the field.
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