Jammu and Kashmir’s Shubham Pundir celebrates his century (PTI Photo) Ranji Trophy finals are often marathon affairs and the ongoing summit clash between Jammu, Kashmir and Karnataka follows that script. After J&K posted an impressive 584 in their first innings, Karnataka reached 35 for one at lunch on Day 3 but slumped to 98 for four in the second session.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SIGN UP NOW!With plenty of time remaining but a big deficit to overcome, a draw remains a possibility. However, unlike league matches, the Ranji Trophy final must produce a winner. Fortunately, one key rule provides clarity: if there is no straight result, the champion is decided by the lead in the first innings.
India play XI drama: How three players fight for two spots | Sanju Samson IN?
Basically, if neither side can bowl the other out twice or chase down the target, the team with the higher first innings total wins the trophy. This ensures that consistent performance in the longer format will be rewarded, especially in multi-day matches where weather or pitch conditions may prevent a definitive finish.The actual final could go like this:Scenario 1 – Karnataka take the lead in the first innings:If Karnataka surpass J&K’s 584 by scoring 585 or more, they will get a decisive first innings advantage. Even if the match ends in a draw, Karnataka will be crowned Ranji Trophy champions. This is the easiest route to the title for the southern side, even if it requires overcoming a huge deficit.Scenario 2 – Jammu and Kashmir maintains the lead:Should Karnataka not reach 584, J&K will retain the first innings advantage. In such event, irrespective of time remaining or tie, Jammu and Kashmir will be declared champions. Their strong batting performance and early bowling control currently puts them in a commanding position.Scenario 3 – External interrupt:In the unlikely event of rain or other factors preventing Karnataka from completing their innings and no first innings lead being established, tournament rules may start points in the group stage or previous performance. However, the lead in the first innings is usually decisive in the finals.584 of Jammu and Kashmir was built through disciplined partnership and lower order resistance which gave them a strong platform. Their bowlers also applied early pressure in Karnataka’s reply, removing key batsmen KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Smaran Ravichandran and Karun Nair.See also: IND vs ZIM
