Jammu/Srinagar, March 1 -- Jammu and Kashmir created history by winning its first-ever Ranji Trophy title, defeating heavyweights Karnataka on their home turf at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground on Saturday. Chief minister Omar Abdullah was present in Hubballi to witness the final moments of the match, cheering the team on to the historic triumph. Following the emphatic victory, Abdullah announced a cash reward of Rs.2 crore for the players and support staff. Additionally, he said that the players would be entitled to government appointments under the recently notified rules for outstanding sportspersons. Expressing his happiness on X, Omar Abdullah wrote,"They've done it. Well done J&K." Earlier speaking to reporters the CM praised the team's relentless dominance throughout the five-day match against Karnataka at the KSCA Hubli Cricket Ground. "A lot of people thought this wasn't possible, but I think this shows that self-belief is the most important thing," Abdullah said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the J&K cricket team and said the historic triumph reflects the players' remarkable grit, discipline and passion, and is a proud moment for locals. Modi hoped that this feat will inspire many young athletes to dream big. "Congratulations to the J&K team for their first ever Ranji Trophy win! This historic triumph reflects remarkable grit, discipline and passion of the team. It is a proud moment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and it highlights the growing sporting passion and talent there," he said in a post on X. Union home minister Amit Shah also congratulated the J&K team for winning its maiden Ranji Trophy title, calling it a moment that fills every citizen with immense pride. "On Jammu and Kashmir winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time ever, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every youth of the region and especially to team J&K that scripted this history," he said in a message posted on X. Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha described the victory as the region's "finest hour". "J&K's finest hour has arrived! Emotions surging beyond words as I watch our cricket team claiming the Ranji Trophy," Sinha wrote on X. Deputy CM Surinder Kumar Choudhary also lauded the team's success, calling it a historic milestone. "This is a matter of pride for Jammu and Kashmir," Choudhary said. "...