Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Madhya Pradesh holds the edge with 135-run lead against J&K on Day 2

Madhya Pradesh's Avesh Khan grabbed three wickets as the team bowled out Jammu and Kashmir for 120 on Day 2 of thier Ranji Trophy 2026-27 clash. | Photo Credit: IMRAN NISSAR

Madhya Pradesh has the edge, but Jammu and Kashmir has a foothold in its Group A Ranji Trophy fixture.

After bowling out J&K for 120 to take a 76-run first-innings lead, MP ended the second day at 59 for four, ahead by 135 runs overall, with Auqib Nabi’s late strikes keeping the hosts in the contest.

Making the most of the overcast conditions at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium on Monday, Avesh Khan struck in his first over, removing night-watchman Vanshaj Sharma and setting the tone for a difficult day for J&K.

Operating round the wicket, Avesh (three for 29) and Aryan Pandey (three for 44) maintained a disciplined line and length, striking regularly. There were no demons in the pitch, but even experienced campaigners Qamran Iqbal and Paras Dogra struggled to find a way through.

Dogra and Abdul Samad were expected to lead J&K’s recovery, but Avesh changed his angle and tempted the captain into a cover drive. Yash Dubey held the catch at gully.

ALSO READ | Alive and kicking: Mohammed Shami presents case to India selectors with four-fer in Ranji Trophy

J&K went into lunch at 88 for five, but the slide continued after the break. Samad, Nasir Lone and Auqib departed in quick succession as the lower order failed to offer much resistance.

From the dugout, MP coach Chandrakant Pandit urged his bowlers to remain disciplined and stick to their plans. They delivered, giving him the upper hand in his tactical duel with J&K coach Ajay Sharma.

After a quiet outing in the first innings, Nabi hit back with the ball. Qamran took a sharp catch at gully to dismiss Harsh Gawli, before Nabi had Himanshu Mantri caught at slip by Shubham Pundir within five deliveries. MP slipped to 56 for four, with Sunil Kumar also striking at crucial moments.

MP remains in command with Shubham Sharma at the crease, but J&K needs early wickets to stay in the hunt.