Paras Dogra's Persistence Pays Off as Jammu & Kashmir Reach Historic Ranji Final
After decades of waiting and a career spanning over two decades, Paras Dogra has scripted a historic chapter for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. The 41-year-old captain led his team to their first-ever Ranji Trophy final with a commanding six-wicket victory over Bengal on Wednesday, ending a 67-year quest that began with the team's debut in the 1959-60 season.
A Testament to Perseverance and Stubborn Belief
"Cricket tests you far more than it rewards you," Dogra reflected after the monumental win, as quoted by news agency PTI. His words encapsulate not just the semifinal triumph but a lifetime dedicated to the sport. "We just have to be stubborn," he added, emphasizing the mental fortitude required to transform a perennial underdog side into championship contenders.
Dogra's journey to this pinnacle began in 2001 when he debuted for Himachal Pradesh. Over the years, he built a reputation as one of domestic cricket's most consistent performers, later representing Pondicherry from the 2018-19 season through 2023-24 before joining Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.
Milestone Achievement During Semifinal Victory
During the crucial semifinal match, Dogra achieved a personal landmark that further highlighted his extraordinary career. He became only the second batter in history, after the legendary Wasim Jaffer, to cross 10,000 runs in Ranji Trophy competition.
"Kabhi socha nahin tha (never thought I will get to this milestone)," Dogra expressed with characteristic humility. "Khelna pasand hai, baaki uparwala ne 10,000 run bana diya (I just love playing and by the grace of God I could make 10,000), so I'm really very happy."
Despite the personal achievement, Dogra remained focused on the collective goal. "We have to keep going. So, God has written that we will play in the final," he stated, redirecting attention to the team's historic accomplishment.
Statistical Dominance and Career Highlights
Paras Dogra's first-class career numbers testify to his remarkable consistency:
- 10,517 runs in 152 first-class matches
- Impressive average above 48
- 34 centuries and 36 half-centuries
- Highest score of 253
The former India A batter has also represented the country in unofficial Tests against West Indies A in 2013, showcasing his talent at the highest levels of the game.
Transforming a Dressing Room Culture
When Dogra joined Jammu and Kashmir, he entered a dressing room searching for belief and direction. His experience and leadership have been instrumental in fostering a winning mentality that culminated in this season's historic run to the final.
"Definitely, I am very happy and I am also very happy that I got to play with such amazing guys," Dogra acknowledged, crediting his teammates and support staff. "The coaching staff. The management. They are supporting me in everything. So, I think we have been talking about it from the first day, so, hopefully we will do it."
Strategic Composure During Critical Moments
The semifinal victory required strategic patience after Jammu and Kashmir conceded a 26-run first-innings lead, being bowled out for 302. Dogra's calm leadership proved crucial during this challenging phase.
"There was still two-and-a-half-days game was left so the lead of 26 runs doesn't matter that much," he explained. "Because it was a five-day game. So, we were still positive. That we will chase as many runs as possible. But we were not expecting that Bengal will fold so quickly."
When asked if the magnitude of their achievement had fully registered, Dogra confirmed: "Yes, it has sunk in, we were in a good position. So, yes, definitely."
This historic victory represents not just a personal triumph for Paras Dogra but a watershed moment for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. After 67 years of participation in India's premier domestic competition, the team has finally broken through to the championship match, led by a captain whose career embodies the perseverance and dedication required to achieve such milestones.
