JAMMU – The winter capital erupted in joy as the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) hosted a massive victory march to celebrate the region’s first-ever Ranji Trophy title. After an incredible season culminating in a historic win over Karnataka, the team was treated to a hero’s welcome. Players and support staff rode an open-top bus, snaking through the city’s landmarks while thousands of fans lined the streets to cheer for their local icons.
A Hero’s Welcome Through the City
The procession was a vibrant display of emotion and pride. Starting from BC Road, the march passed through areas like Bakshi Nagar and Gandhi Nagar before reaching the MA Stadium. Before the bus set off, Brigadier (Retd) Anil Gupta, Member Administration of JKCA, garlanded the champions, marking the start of a celebration that Jammu won’t soon forget. For the players, seeing the massive crowds was a powerful reminder of the impact their 67-year-long journey to the summit has had on the people.
Voices of the Champions
On the sidelines of a felicitation by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Captain Paras Dogra credited the win to a “collective belief” and years of hard work. The stars of the tournament, including Auqib Nabi—the leading wicket-taker—and Qamran Iqbal, were seen waving to fans throughout the route. Coach Ajay Sharma noted that while they lacked “big-name stars,” the squad’s unity and mental toughness allowed them to compete with, and eventually defeat, the giants of domestic cricket.
Inspiring the Next Generation
This victory march wasn’t just about celebrating the past; it was about fueling the future. The sight of the Ranji Trophy being paraded through Jammu has already sparked a surge of aspiration among young cricketers across the Union Territory. With the JKCA planning further celebrations for March 10, the message is clear: J&K is no longer a peripheral player in Indian cricket. They are the champions, and this victory is a testament to the talent and resilience of the region’s youth.
