CM joins celebrations, announces Rs 2 crore reward for players, support staff

Hubballi, Feb 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday announced a Rs 2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff of Jammu and Kashmir cricket team for lifting maiden Ranji Trophy title.
Describing the triumph as a defining chapter for J&K cricket, the Chief Minister, said the victory has ignited celebrations across the region and inspired a new generation of young sportspersons.
He declared that members of the title-winning squad would be eligible for government appointments under the newly notified policy for outstanding athletes.
Facing eight-time champions Karnataka on their home ground, J&K showcased grit and composure to secure the trophy on the strength of a commanding 291-run first-innings lead. The team tightened its grip on the contest by piling up 342/4 in the second innings, stretching the overall advantage to 633 runs by the end of the fifth and final day at the KSCA Rajnagar Stadium in Hubballi.
Opener Qamran Iqbal led from the front with an unbeaten 160 — his second century in first-class cricket — while Sahil Lotra struck a fluent maiden hundred (101 not out), ensuring J&K remained firmly in control.
With the ball, Auqib Nabi once again proved decisive.
The pacer claimed a five-wicket haul for the seventh time this season, underlining his consistency and impact throughout the campaign.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who was present at the stadium to witness the historic occasion, met the players after the match and congratulated them personally.
He applauded Qamran Iqbal and Sahil Lotra for their remarkable innings and commended Auqib Nabi for his match-winning spells, noting that his disciplined bowling was instrumental in steering the team to the title.
Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq and Members of JKCA accompanied the Chief Minister.
Pertinently, Jammu and Kashmir made their debut in India’s premier domestic competition 67 years ago. Despite reaching the quarterfinals in previous seasons, the elusive championship had remained out of reach — until now. (KNO)