JKCA, Mumbai lock horns in Ranji Trophy opener at SK Stadium
Umran Malik left out as Auqib Nabi strikes early for hosts
The much-anticipated Ranji Trophy 2025-26 kicked off in Srinagar on Wednesday with Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA), taking on star studded Mumbai at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium in Srinagar.
After winning the toss, J&K skipper, as per the news agency Kashmir News Observer, elected to field first.
In a surprising move, star pacer Umran Malik was left out of the playing XI, drawing murmurs among fans, who had gathered to witness the season opener.
J&K got an early breakthrough when Auqib Nabi struck in the opening over, dismissing Sarfraz Khan caught behind the stumps.
The early wicket lifted the home side’s spirits as Mumbai’s Ajinkya Rahane and Ayush Mhatre steadied the innings.
At the time of reporting, Mumbai were 24 for 1, with Rahane and Mhatre at the crease.
The match marks the return of top-tier domestic cricket to Srinagar, with local fans braving the morning chill to support their home side.
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