Srinagar, Oct 19: Former Jammu & Kashmir skipper and seasoned pacer Samiullah Beigh praised J&K’s overall effort against Mumbai in their Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season opener but expressed disappointment over the team’s approach in the final innings, saying that the top order failed to capitalise on a good wicket and played “too much in their shell.”
Speaking to Greater Kashmir after J&K’s narrow loss at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, Beigh said the match was well within reach, but the batting lacked the fluency required in a chase.
“J&K played exceedingly well. It is not easy to chase 240-odd in the last innings, but the wicket had no demons. The top order should have scored substantial runs. If the first four or five batsmen had taken us to 150, the game would have been much more comfortable,” Beigh said.
He felt that the team fell short by about 20–25 runs, which proved decisive.
“They didn’t express their strokes. They were a bit too defensive. Cricket rewards positive intent. If the last two players could play with that approach alongside Auqib Nabi, the result might have been different,” he added.
Beigh said J&K bowled well initially but lost their grip after the lunch and tea sessions, which allowed Mumbai to reach 386, around 40–50 runs extra, which ultimately became crucial,” he said.
On individual performances, Beigh highlighted both promise and inconsistency within the squad. He praised Yudhvir Singh and Auqib Nabi for their effort but felt the batting unit lacked continuation.
Beigh, however, cautioned against making hasty changes after just one game.
“The players are good. I don’t believe in changing the team after one match. What is needed is a positive mindset. Playing in a shell never helps. You have to express yourself,” Beigh said.
The former pacer, who has been a key figure in J&K’s cricketing structure, also backed Umran Malik and the region’s strong pace legacy.
“J&K has always been a pacer-rich side. Umran was on the sidelines this game, but he will be back. Auqib and Yudhvir are performing well. We have the bench strength,” he added confidently.
J&K prepare for their next Ranji outing against Rajasthan from 25 Oct to 28 Oct 2025 at SK Stadium in Srinagar, and it will be the second game in a row for them at their home ground.
