Srinagar, Oct 2: Coming in when Jammu and Kashmir were struggling at 166 for eight, Lone Nasir Muzaffar turned the tide with an attacking 64 against Rest of India in the Irani Cup on Friday, capping an impressive all-round performance that could strengthen his case for a place in J&K’s upcoming Ranji Trophy campaign.
Given an opportunity to perform on one of domestic cricket’s biggest stages, Lone grabbed it with both hands, emerging as one of J&K’s standout performers in the contest at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium here on Friday.
Often viewed as a useful option in the shorter formats, Lone demonstrated his ability to make an impact in first-class cricket as well, combining disciplined bowling with an aggressive batting display that helped J&K recover from a difficult position.
His contribution with the bat was particularly significant, coming into the middle when J&K were struggling at 166 for eight. With the innings in danger of folding, Lone took the attack to the Rest of India seamers, finding the boundary regularly and refusing to let the pressure dictate his approach.
He struck three towering sixes and eight fours, with his pull shots proving particularly effective against the pace attack. His innings not only added crucial runs but also shifted the momentum towards the hosts at a stage when Rest of India appeared to be closing in on a substantial advantage.
Lone first combined with skipper Paras Dogra in a valuable 64-run partnership, helping J&K stabilise their innings and push the total forward. After Dogra’s departure, he continued to fight alongside the lower order, adding another 48 runs with Sunil Kumar for the final wicket.
That last-wicket stand proved decisive in the context of the first innings, allowing J&K to move past Rest of India’s total and establish a 41-run lead.
Lone’s contribution was not limited to his batting exploits. Earlier, he had claimed three wickets as J&K dismissed Rest of India for 237 on the opening day, underlining his value as a player capable of contributing in both departments.
For the selectors, his performance offers an encouraging case to consider ahead of the upcoming Ranji Trophy season. With J&K set to play several matches at home, the team will need players who can contribute consistently with both bat and ball in the demanding first-class format.
While one innings cannot guarantee a regular place, Lone has used the Irani Cup opportunity to demonstrate that he can rise to the occasion against a strong opposition. His ability to rescue the innings from 166 for eight, attack the seamers and then help secure the first-innings lead has added weight to his credentials.
For a player seeking to establish himself beyond the shorter formats, the Irani Cup has provided a valuable platform. Lone has responded with a performance that could strengthen his claim for a more regular role in J&K’s red-ball setup.
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