When Was the Last International Cricket Match in Jammu and Kashmir?

The state of Jammu and Kashmir has seen many ups and downs over the years. However, J&K still has immense talent and when it comes to cricket, its growth has been no less than inspirational.

They are the defending champions of India's biggest domestic cricket league at the moment, a monumental effort which was achieved when they won the Ranji Trophy last season. Things started changing after their title win as they became the new powerhouses of Indian cricket.

Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy win was widely appreciated all over the country. Now, they have got a chance to host the prestigious Irani Cup as well. The Irani Cup 2026-27 will be played at the iconic Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium, which has also hosted international matches before.

When Was the Last International Match in Jammu and Kashmir?

Jammu and Kashmir last international match was played on September 9, 1986 between India and Australia. Some of the best cricketers in the world like Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Kapil Dev, Allan Border, Dean Jones and Steve Waugh were part of that game.

The match went right down to the wire with Australia winning by 3 wickets and one over to spare. Sunil Gavaskar top-scored for India with a quickfire 52 off 56 balls. Meanwhile, Ravi Shastri chipped in with a valuable 37 and India's legendary domestic coach Chandrakant Pandit scored 24.

In reply, Australia lost wickets early but skipper Allan Border showed why he is the GOAT of cricket. He scored a match-winning 90 off 106 balls while Greg Matthews and Greg Ritchie also chipped in with valuable contributions. Kapil Dev and Roger Binny picked up two wickets each with the ball.

Since then, there has been no completed game in Jammu and Kashmir. A match between India and New Zealand was scheduled to be played at the Maulana Azad Stadium, Jammu in 1988 but it was washed out due to rain. Overall, two men's international matches have been played in the state so far.

Political unrest and security concerns have since played a big part in Kashmir's downfall, not allowing any big game to be played in this beautiful state. However, it has continued hosting domestic fixtures involving the home team and the Legends Cricket League matches as well.

Jammu & Kashmir's Historic Ranji Trophy Win

Jammu and Kashmir defeated some of the biggest domestic teams like Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Bengal, and Delhi on their way to win the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 title. It was their maiden Ranji Trophy win, highlighting their progress over the years.

The decision to hold Irani cup in Jammu and Kashmir can have a massive impact in the state's future in cricket. The Jammu and Kashmir vs Rest of India Irani Cup match, which is likely to have some of the top names across Indian domestic cricket, will be played from October 1-5. It will inspire the youngsters to pick up this sport and represent their country in the future.