On February 18, 2026, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) made history by reaching the Ranji Trophy final for the first time in 67 years, defeating Bengal by six wickets in a thrilling semifinal match held in Kalyani. The team resumed their innings at 43 for two and achieved the remaining 83 runs in about two hours on day four, showcasing their resilience and determination. This landmark victory sparked widespread celebrations across the region, marking a significant milestone in J&K's cricketing journey. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his pride, stating, "This is a collective achievement of the entire team and support staff," and emphasized the hope that more players from J&K will represent India in the future. Coach Ajay Sharma noted the team's adaptability, stating he was pleased with how his players overcame challenges to beat 'big teams in away matches' this season, further highlighting their growth since their Ranji Trophy debut in the 1959-60 season.