Ranji Trophy final explained: Who wins if the match ends in a draw?

Kolkata, March 2025 — As the Ranji Trophy final between Jammu & Kashmir and Karnataka enters its pivotal middle phase, the age-old question that shadows every domestic summit clash has resurfaced: what happens if the contest finishes in a draw? The answer, enshrined in the tournament’s playing conditions, is refreshingly straightforward — the side that secures the first-innings lead is crowned champion.

After three days of attritional cricket at Eden Gardens, Jammu & Kashmir have already laid the groundwork for such an outcome. Their first-innings total of 584, constructed on the back of disciplined partnerships and defiant lower-order contributions, has given the northerners a vice-like grip on proceedings. Karnataka, replying to the mountain of runs, reached 35 for one at lunch on Day 3 but wobbled to 98 for four in the afternoon session, losing KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Smaran Ravichandran and Karun Nair in quick succession.

With Karnataka still 486 runs adrift and only six wickets in hand, the arithmetic is stark. If the southern giants overhaul 584, they will seize the first-innings lead and, by rule, the trophy — even if time runs out and the match is drawn. Conversely, any total short of 584 will leave Jammu & Kashmir in possession of the decisive advantage, making them champions irrespective of further play. In the unlikely event that weather or other interruptions prevent the completion of Karnataka’s first innings, officials will fall back on pre-stated tie-breakers such as group-stage points, though the first-innings benchmark remains the default arbiter.

The regulation ensures that sustained dominance over the longest format is rewarded, guarding the competition against stalemate in the event of rain, lifeless pitches or simply two well-matched sides. For the moment, Jammu & Kashmir’s 584 towers over the scoreboard, and their bowlers continue to probe for the breakthrough that could widen the door to a maiden Ranji crown.