🏏 Paras Dogra: The Uncrowned King of Ranji Trophy Centuries

Paras Dogra Becomes Second-Highest Century-Maker in Ranji Trophy History , Jammu & Kashmir captain made history in Srinagar by scoring his 32nd Ranji Trophy century against Mumbai at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium. With this milestone, the 40-year-old veteran has surpassed Ajay Sharma’s record of 31 tons, becoming the second-most prolific century-maker in the prestigious tournament’s history — behind only Wasim Jaffer’s 40 centuries.

Dogra’s latest hundred — an unbeaten 112 off 169 balls with 16 fours — came at a crucial moment when Jammu & Kashmir were reeling at 2 for 2. His composed innings, featuring vital partnerships with Abdul Samad (94) and Abid Mushtaq (68), helped the hosts recover strongly in response to Mumbai’s first-innings total of 386.

Beyond centuries, Paras Dogra also stands second to Wasim Jaffer in total Ranji runs, having crossed the 9,500-run mark — a testament to his consistency and longevity in Indian domestic cricket. His innings once again underlined his experience, calm under pressure, and leadership as Jammu & Kashmir’s dependable run machine.

Introduction

In Indian cricket’s glittering history, where the spotlight often shines on international stars, there exist unsung heroes who’ve quietly rewritten the record books in domestic cricket. One such gem is Paras Dogra, the master craftsman of India’s first-class arena. With his calm demeanor, remarkable consistency, and hunger for big scores, he has carved out a place in history as one of the finest batsmen ever to grace the Ranji Trophy.

From humble beginnings in Himachal Pradesh to becoming the second-highest run-getter in Ranji history, Paras Dogra’s story is a testament to perseverance, patience, and pure love for the game.

📖 Early Life and Cricket Beginnings

Born on 19 November 1984 in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Paras Dogra’s tryst with cricket began in the narrow lanes of the hills where facilities were minimal but dreams were sky-high. Despite the lack of infrastructure, his talent shone through.

He made his first-class debut in the 2001–02 season for Himachal Pradesh, a team that rarely drew national attention. But Dogra was determined to change that narrative. With a solid technique and the temperament of a marathon batsman, he soon became the mainstay of Himachal’s batting lineup.

🏏 Rise Through Himachal Pradesh

Representing a smaller cricketing state is never easy. Limited exposure, tough pitches, and less media coverage can often dim even the brightest talent. But Paras Dogra thrived in these challenges.

During his long tenure with Himachal Pradesh, Dogra became synonymous with dependability. Whenever the team needed stability, he delivered — match after match, season after season.

📊 Key Highlights with Himachal Pradesh

First-class debut: 2001–02
Total First-class matches: 143
Total runs: 9,966+
Batting average: 48.37
Centuries: 32 | Fifties: 33
Highest score: 253 (for Puducherry later)

One of his most remarkable seasons came in 2012–13, when Dogra smashed five centuries in just eight matches, becoming one of the most consistent domestic batsmen in India. His monumental innings of 227 runs in the 2015–16 Ranji season further solidified his reputation as a run-machine.

🔁 The Transition: From Himachal to Puducherry and J&K

After serving Himachal for over a decade, Dogra sought fresh challenges and a new environment to continue his domestic dominance. Ahead of the 2018–19 Ranji Trophy, he joined Puducherry, a newly formed team in the domestic circuit.

His move proved immediately fruitful — Dogra became Puducherry’s first-ever centurion in the Ranji Trophy. He also went on to score a career-best 253 off 244 balls against Sikkim, marking his eighth double century in Ranji history — the highest by any batsman at that time.

In 2024, Paras Dogra added another chapter to his illustrious journey by moving to Jammu & Kashmir, where he continued to mentor young cricketers while maintaining his incredible run-scoring consistency.

🏆 Ranji Trophy Records & Milestones

If you browse the Ranji Trophy record books, Paras Dogra’s name dominates several columns — from most centuries to double hundreds. His longevity and discipline are legendary among peers.

🥈 Second-Highest Run-Scorer in Ranji History

In October 2024, Dogra overtook Devendra Bundela and Amol Muzumdar to become the second-highest run-getter in Ranji Trophy history, amassing over 9,215 runs. Only Wasim Jaffer (12,038) remains ahead of him.

🏅 Most Centuries (Top 3)

Wasim Jaffer: 40
Paras Dogra: 32
Ajay Sharma: 31

Dogra’s consistency is astounding — 32 hundreds across tough seasons and varied conditions.

💯 Most Double Centuries (Joint Record)

Paras Dogra shares the record for most double centuries (9) in Ranji Trophy history with Cheteshwar Pujara — a mark of sustained excellence.

Each double hundred symbolizes patience, skill, and the rare ability to convert starts into monumental innings — an art few modern batsmen master.

🧠 Style, Technique & Temperament

Dogra’s batting is an old-school masterclass — watchful early, assured in the middle overs, and ruthless once settled.

✍️ Key Traits

Patience & focus: Dogra never rushes; he builds innings ball by ball.
Back-foot authority: His cuts and pulls against pacers are textbook-perfect.
Conversion rate: Turning fifties into hundreds and hundreds into doubles has been his trademark.
Adaptability: Whether on green tops, turning tracks, or flat decks, he adjusts seamlessly.
Mentorship: His stints with Puducherry and J&K show his growing role as a mentor for younger cricketers.

Dogra’s ability to grind bowlers down mirrors some of India’s greatest — a blend of Rahul Dravid’s calm and Cheteshwar Pujara’s tenacity.

🕰️ Memorable Innings & Turning Points

Here are a few standout moments that define Paras Dogra’s illustrious career:

2012–13 Season: Five centuries in eight matches — one of the best domestic runs ever by a Himachal batsman.
2015–16 Ranji Trophy: His 227 against Odisha showed his ability to play marathon innings.
2018–19 for Puducherry: Became their first centurion, scoring a blazing 253 vs Sikkim.
2024 Milestone: Crossed 9,215 career runs in Ranji, second only to Wasim Jaffer.
9th Double Century: Equaled Cheteshwar Pujara’s record for most double tons.

Each knock added to his growing legend and inspired a generation of domestic players from smaller states.

⚔️ Challenges & Overlooked Glory

Despite such stunning numbers, Paras Dogra never made it to the Indian national team — a reality that frustrates many domestic cricket followers.

Possible Reasons

Represented smaller teams like Himachal & Puducherry with limited media coverage.
His peak years coincided with India’s golden generation of batsmen — Dravid, Laxman, Tendulkar, Sehwag, and later Kohli.
Limited IPL success despite stints with Rajasthan Royals, Kings XI Punjab, and Kolkata Knight Riders.
Selectors often looked for younger players for long-term prospects.

Still, in domestic circles, Dogra commands immense respect. For teammates and opponents alike, he’s a benchmark of professionalism and consistency.

📈 Legacy: Where Paras Dogra Stands Among Greats

When the conversation turns to Indian domestic legends — Wasim Jaffer, Amol Muzumdar, Ajay Sharma, Devendra Bundela — Paras Dogra comfortably stands beside them.

📚 Comparative Highlights

Player	Ranji Runs	Centuries	Double Hundreds
Wasim Jaffer	12,038	40	10
Paras Dogra	9,215+	30	9
Ajay Sharma	8,330	31	8
Amol Muzumdar	9,202	28	6

Dogra’s numbers and longevity ensure his name is forever etched in Ranji folklore — a domestic titan who never stopped scoring.

🚀 Future & Impact Beyond the Pitch

Even as he moves into the twilight of his playing career, Paras Dogra’s impact continues to grow:

Mentoring younger batters in Jammu & Kashmir’s lineup.
Inspiring cricketers from smaller states to dream big.
Eyeing more personal milestones — perhaps surpassing Wasim Jaffer’s record if fitness allows.
Potential future role as a batting coach or domestic mentor — passing on two decades of wisdom.

Dogra’s story proves that success isn’t limited to international fame; it’s about leaving behind a lasting legacy wherever you play.

💬 Quotes About Paras Dogra (From Interviews & Peers)

“If Paras Dogra had played for Mumbai or Delhi, he would have been in the Indian team long ago.” — Former domestic cricketer, 2023 interview.

“Dogra is a lesson in patience and passion. Year after year, he scores runs with the same hunger.” — Ranji teammate.

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🙌 Conclusion

Paras Dogra may not have worn the India cap, but his achievements in domestic cricket make him nothing short of a legend. From Himachal Pradesh to Puducherry and now Jammu & Kashmir, his dedication has inspired countless young players to believe that even from smaller states, greatness is achievable.

A craftsman with the bat, a mentor off the field, and a symbol of perseverance — Paras Dogra will forever be remembered as the Uncrowned King of Ranji Trophy Centuries.