Ranji Trophy 2025/26
Kalyani, Feb 16: Mohammed Shami produced two sharp spells to claim three wickets, yet Jammu and Kashmir recovered strongly to post 198 for 5 against Bengal on Day Two of the Ranji Trophy semi-final, keeping the contest finely balanced.
Resuming at 249 for 5, Bengal were bowled out for 328, with Auqib Nabi returning figures of 5 for 87 and completing 50 wickets in this Ranji season. Sudip Kumar Gharami added just 10 to his overnight 136 before falling for 146.
J&K were jolted early as Shami removed both openers, reducing them to 13 for 3. However, skipper Paras Dogra (58) and Abdul Samad (82) stitched a brisk 143-run stand to revive the innings. Dogra also crossed the 10,000-run mark in the Ranji Trophy.
Shami broke the partnership by dismissing Samad, and J&K slipped from 156 for 3 to 156 for 5. An unbeaten 42-run stand ensured they ended the day well placed, though still trailing by 130 runs. With 131 runs still required to secure the crucial first-innings lead, Jammu and Kashmir hold the immediate advantage but cannot afford another collapse when play resumes.
The onus will be on the overnight pair to chip away at the deficit steadily, knowing that a slender lead in a knockout contest can tilt the psychological balance dramatically. Bengal, for their part, will sense an opening if they can prise out a wicket or two in the morning session, especially with Mohammed Shami capable of producing a decisive burst at any stage. The pitch has offered enough assistance for disciplined seam bowling, and momentum has shifted more than once already in this absorbing semi-final. (PTI)
