Youngsters seal first-ever BCCI crown with crushing innings win over Mizoram
January 6, 2026: The Jammu and Kashmir Under-16 team created history by clinching the Vijay Merchant Trophy Plate Group title, the Union Territory’s first-ever BCCI crown, after defeating Mizoram by an innings and 182 runs on the third day of the final. J&K wrapped up the four-day match with a day to spare, drawing praise from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who hailed the win as a landmark achievement reflecting the region’s rising cricketing talent.
After Mizoram were bowled out for 100 in the first innings, J&K piled on a massive 400 in 95.1 overs to take a commanding 300-run lead. Captain Smagey Khajuria led from the front with a fluent 102, while Athrav Sharma remained unbeaten on 92, anchoring the innings with confidence and flair.
J&K’s bowlers then sealed the contest by dismissing Mizoram for 118 in their second innings. Sanil Singh starred with figures of 3 for 15, supported by Jaskaran Singh and Hammaad Firdous. Notably, Sanil and Jaskaran had also taken three wickets each in the first innings, underlining J&K’s dominance throughout the match.