Meet Shubham Pundir: Jammu And Kashmir Star Who Won 'Player Of The Match' After Historic Ranji Trophy Final Triumph

At a time when Jammu and Kashmir cricket is redefining its domestic stature, Shubham Singh Pundir has emerged as one of the side's most dependable performers. The left-handed top-order batter, born on 16 October 1998 in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has quietly built his reputation on discipline, patience, and the ability to deliver when it matters most. Pundir made his first-class debut for Jammu and Kashmir in the 2014-15 Ranji Trophy season on 13 January 2015 at just 16 years of age. That early introduction to senior cricket immediately marked him out as a long-term prospect. He soon expanded his footprint across formats,

Pundir's record does not scream flamboyance, it reflects reliability. In first-class cricket he has scored 1,296 runs in 31 matches at an average of 27.57 with 3 centuries and 3 half-centuries to his name. Likewise for List A, Shubham has scored 1,007 runs in 41 matches at an average: 27.97 with 8 half-centuries. In T20 cricket, Pundir has scored 695 runs in 42 matches at a strike rate of 111.73 with 4 half-centuries.

On the biggest domestic stage, against one of India's most decorated teams, Pundir delivered a commanding 121 runs becoming the first Jammu and Kashmir batter to score a century in a Ranji Trophy final, thus far the defining chapter of Pundir's career. He won the 'Player of the Match' award after J&K's historic triumph.

Pundir is not a flashy player. He plays late, respects conditions, and values his wicket. His technique is compact; his shot selection is measured. He constructs innings rather than chasing quick impact. That approach suits red-ball cricket perfectly especially in pressure scenarios.

What sets him apart is his ability to absorb pressure, settle into long phases of concentration, and then accelerate when the match demands it. The Ranji final innings was the clearest evidence of that balance.

Though not always wearing a captain's badge, Pundir's influence runs deep. His calm presence in the middle order offers assurance to younger teammates. In tight situations, he becomes a reference point.

Big-match temperament often shapes a player's standing within a team - and Pundir has shown he belongs on major stages.

Now entering what should be the prime years of his career, Shubham Pundir stands as one of the most technically sound and experienced batters in the Jammu and Kashmir setup.

For now, he remains what every serious team needs, a reliable left-hander who holds the batting core together when the pressure peaks.

Topics mentioned in this article

Shubham Pundir Jammu and Kashmir Ranji Trophy Cricket