In a truly memorable moment during Jammu & Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy match against Mumbai on Thursday, veteran batsman Paras Dogra nudged Tanush Kotian towards mid-on and swiftly completed a single in the 57th over. This seemingly simple act propelled him to an incredible milestone: he now stands second only to the legendary Wasim Jaffer in the prestigious list of batters with the most centuries in First-Class cricket. In a twist of fate, the very coach he surpassed with his 32nd Ranji hundred, Ajay Sharma, was present in the dressing room, witnessing history unfold. Not just that, during this same remarkable innings, Dogra also powered past the impressive 10,000-run mark in First-Class cricket.
Ajay Sharma, a formidable run-scorer for Delhi in his prime and now the 61-year-old head coach of J&K, was initially unaware that Dogra had eclipsed his personal century count. However, upon hearing the news at the close of play, Sharma was quick to praise Dogra’s unparalleled dedication. “Achieving 10,000 runs and 32 centuries is a truly monumental accomplishment,” Sharma stated. “His commitment to the game is absolutely exceptional. I feel incredibly proud to be his coach at the moment he has surpassed my century record.”
Dogra, at 40 years old, joined the J&K squad from Puducherry at the start of the previous season. His recruitment was strategic. “We brought him in last season because we recognised the need for a strong leader within the team,” the coach explained. “The younger players have so much to learn from him. He has enjoyed a remarkable career.”