Omar Abdullah announces cash prize, government jobs after historic title win
February 28, 2026: Following Jammu and Kashmir’s maiden Ranji Trophy triumph, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced a ₹2 crore cash reward for the players and support staff. The team secured the historic victory against Karnataka on Saturday, prompting celebrations across the Union Territory. Abdullah, who travelled to the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground to cheer for the side, described the achievement as a “watershed moment” that has inspired the entire region.
Beyond the financial incentive, the Chief Minister confirmed that the championship-winning players would be eligible for government jobs under newly notified rules aimed at supporting outstanding sportspersons. He said the landmark victory would act as a catalyst for strengthening sports infrastructure and motivating young athletes in Jammu and Kashmir to pursue competitive cricket.
Abdullah watched the final stages of the five-day match from the stands, accompanied by Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Tanvir Sadiq, and praised the team’s dominance throughout the contest. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha termed the victory the region’s “finest hour,” while Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary called it a historic milestone for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.