India, Feb. 24 -- In the lead-up to the Ranji Trophy final, spectators and cricket aficionados had hoped for a balanced pitch so that the contest would be lively. After all, Karnataka's batting might was expected to test the resolve of Jammu and Kashmir's potent bowling attack.

However, after winning the toss and opting to bat in Hubballi, J&K dominated the opening day in a way few may have expected them to, reaching 284/2 at stumps on Day 1.

It started with opener Yawer Hassan (88) and Shubham Pundir (117*) playing knocks to remember and stitching a fine 139-run stand for the second wicket. The duo, who had lean seasons with the bat before this, turned up on the day it mattered.

J&K were dealt a blow before the final after opener Shub...