JAMMU: A brilliant all-round performance powered Jammu and Kashmir to a crucial victory over Uttar Pradesh in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy at Sharad Pawar Cricket Academy, BKC Mumbai, bringing them closer to a spot in the knockouts.

Chasing a target of 158, J&K's opening pair of Shubham Khajuria (85* off 59 balls) and Qamran Iqbal (37 off 20 balls) set the stage ablaze with a flurry of boundaries.

Iqbal's explosive knock, which included 3 fours and 3 sixes, laid the foundation before he was dismissed. Khajuria, supported by Abdul Samad (22), remained unbeaten to guide J&K to a six-wicket win in 19.1 overs.

Earlier, Shivam Mavi's 39 off 14 balls propelled Uttar Pradesh to a fighting total of 157. For J&K, Murugan Ashwin (3/24) was the standout bowler, supported by Abid Mushtaq (2/27).

Khajuria's scintillating innings earned him the Player of the Match award. With 16 points each, J&K and Uttar Pradesh now eye a spot in the knockout stage as both teams prepare for their final group matches on December 5.