Feb 19: In a season marked by resilience and belief, Jammu & Kashmir scripted history by reaching their maiden Ranji Trophy final. Reflecting on the remarkable journey, former cricketer and mentor Mithun Manhas described the campaign as a story of transformation — from crisis to glory.
J&K’s entry into the final of the prestigious Ranji Trophy marks a watershed moment for cricket in the Union Territory. For decades, the team struggled to move beyond the group stages, often battling limited resources and inconsistent performances. This season, however, they displayed grit, unity and a fearless approach.
Turning Point in the Campaign
Manhas credited the players’ self-belief and discipline as key factors behind the turnaround. According to him, the team responded strongly after early setbacks and began to trust its combination of experienced players and promising youngsters.
He highlighted how the bowling unit stepped up in crunch moments, while the batting lineup showed composure under pressure. “It wasn’t just about talent; it was about character,” Manhas noted, emphasising that the players showed maturity beyond their years.
Building a Winning Culture
The former Delhi cricketer, who has been closely associated with the development of cricket in J&K, said the focus was on creating a professional environment and instilling confidence among players.
He stressed that reaching the Ranji Trophy final is not merely a one-season achievement but the result of sustained effort in grassroots development and structured coaching programmes. The support staff and management also played a crucial role in maintaining morale and fitness standards throughout the long domestic season.
Inspiration for the Region
Jammu & Kashmir’s historic run has generated excitement among cricket enthusiasts in the region. Young aspirants now see a clearer pathway to competitive cricket at the national level.
Manhas expressed hope that this success will inspire more youngsters to take up the sport seriously. He said that the team’s achievement demonstrates that with the right guidance and infrastructure, cricketers from the region can compete with the best in the country.
Eye on the Ultimate Prize
While proud of the journey, Manhas maintained that the team remains focused on the bigger goal — lifting the Ranji Trophy. He urged the players to stay grounded and approach the final with the same hunger and discipline that carried them through the season.
Reaching the final is already a historic milestone, but for J&K, the dream now extends to clinching the coveted title. Regardless of the outcome, their inspiring journey from adversity to achievement will be remembered as a defining chapter in the region’s sporting history.
