The stage is set for a thrilling clash in the Irani Cup 2024-25, with defending champions Rest of India facing off against Mumbai, the winners of the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy. The action will unfold at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow from October 1st to 5th.
Mumbai, a cricketing powerhouse known for its dominance in the Ranji Trophy, secured its 42nd title in the 2023-24 season after defeating Vidarbha by a convincing 169 runs. This victory sets them up for a challenging encounter against the Rest of India, a team composed of the finest talents from across the country.
The 61st edition of the Irani Cup was initially slated for Mumbai but was shifted to Lucknow due to unfavorable weather conditions in the coastal city. The tournament, a revered annual first-class match, pits the reigning Ranji Trophy champion against a Rest of India side, showcasing the breadth of talent in Indian cricket.
The Irani Cup holds a special place in Indian cricket history. Named after Z. R. Irani, a prominent figure in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the tournament was established in the 1959-60 season to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Ranji Trophy. While initially envisioned as a one-off event, its popularity led the BCCI to make it an annual fixture, played in most seasons since 1962-63.
The Irani Cup 2024-25 match will commence at 9:30 AM IST on Tuesday, October 1st. Cricket enthusiasts can catch the live telecast of the match on Sports18 Network, or stream it on the Jio Cinema app and website.
Key Players:
*
Rest of India:
Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Abhimanyu Easwaran (VC), Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (WK)*, Ishan Kishan (WK), Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Prasidh Krishna, Mukesh Kumar, Yash Dayal*, Ricky Bhui, Shashwat Rawat, Khaleel Ahmed, Rahul Chahar*
Mumbai:
Ajinkya Rahane (c), Prithvi Shaw, Sarfaraz Khan*, Ayush Mhatre, Shreyas Iyer, Siddhesh Lad, Suryansh Shedge, Hardik Tamore (wk), Sidhaant Addhatrao (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh, Shardul Thakur, Mohit Avasthi, Mohammad Juned Khan, Royston Dias.*(Note: Players marked with * will be released from India’s squad for the second Test against Bangladesh.)*
This promises to be a thrilling encounter as Mumbai’s formidable lineup faces the combined might of the Rest of India. The match is sure to be a treat for cricket fans, with plenty of action and excitement on display.
