Aaqib Dar produced a sensational unbeaten century to script a stunning turnaround as Jammu and Kashmir pulled off a thrilling three-wicket victory over Hyderabad in their final Group B match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium Ground C in Rajkot on Thursday.
A Remarkable Chase
Chasing a big total, J&K staged a miraculous escape from a precarious position of 90/7. Dar stood tall with a remarkable unbeaten 114 off 82 balls, smashing 10 fours and seven sixes. He formed a record-breaking, unbroken 182-run partnership for the eighth wicket with Vanshaj Sharma, who remained not out on 69. Together, they guided Jammu and Kashmir to victory with 13 balls left.
Strong Start from Hyderabad
Hyderabad appeared firmly in control early in the chase, as skipper C.V. Milind and Mohammed Siraj exploited the pace and bounce on offer. The short-ball strategy was effective, with the duo picking up two wickets each and reducing Jammu and Kashmir to a disastrous position.
Dar’s Counterattack
However, Dar countered the pressure with calculated aggression, especially against the spinners. He used his reach and timing to clear the midwicket and long-on boundaries. As the partnership grew, Hyderabad struggled to regain control, with three dropped catches compounding their woes. Dar brought up his maiden List A hundred in just 65 balls, showcasing his fighting spirit.
Hyderabad’s Competitive Total
Earlier, Hyderabad posted a competitive total after being put in to bat. Rahul Singh Gahlaut set the tone with 56 off 36 balls, while Aman Rao contributed a patient 60. K. Nitesh Reddy anchored the lower order with an unbeaten 54, ensuring Hyderabad completed their full quota of 50 overs and crossed the 250-run mark.
Fielding Lapses and Dar’s Heroics
The Jammu and Kashmir bowlers were let down by fielding lapses, conceding several chances. However, Dar’s heroics with the bat ensured those errors did not prove costly. His innings not only rescued Jammu and Kashmir from defeat but also delivered one of the most memorable comebacks of the tournament, underlining his growing stature in the domestic circuit.