On This Day: Punjab won their first, and only, Ranji Trophy title

Thirty-three years ago, on March 30, 1993, Punjab scripted one of the most defining moments in their cricketing history—lifting their maiden Ranji Trophy title under the leadership of Gursharan Singh.At the Punjab Agricultural University Ground in Ludhiana, the hosts produced a performance that blended grit with moments of individual brilliance.

Opting to bat first, Punjab laid the foundation through a monumental 161 from Amit Sharma, guiding them to 318 in the first innings.Maharashtra responded with 212, undone largely by Bharati Vij’s incisive spell of 6 for 61, which handed Punjab a crucial first-innings lead.The second innings, however, truly reflected the character of Gursharan Singh’s side. On a wearing surface, Punjab managed 146, with the captain himself contributing a vital 44 — an innings that underscored his role not just as a leader, but as a stabilising presence in pressure moments.Set 253 for victory, Maharashtra faltered. Punjab’s bowlers, led again by Bharati Vij and supported by Arun Bedi, wrapped up the chase for 132, sealing a comprehensive 120-run victory.

Beyond the numbers, this triumph marked a watershed for Punjab cricket. It was their first Ranji Trophy title, a breakthrough after years of near-misses, and a testament to a team that thrived on collective effort rather than individual stardom.The 1992-93 campaign also hinted at a production line of talent that would later shape Indian cricket. From gritty domestic performers to future internationals emerging from the system, Punjab’s rise began here.Punjab have not been able to add to that title glory since. They came closest in 1994-95 (lost to Bombay) and 2004-05 (lost to Railways).