Mumbai defeat Rest of India on the basis of first-innings lead to clinch their first Irani Cup title in 27 years
Reigning Ranji Trophy champions Mumbai secured the Irani Cup 2024 by defeating Rest of India (ROI) on the basis of first-innings lead, claiming their first title in 27 years on Saturday, October 5, at Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. Their previous win in this prestigious tournament was in 1997 when they beat ROI by 54 runs under the captaincy of Sanjay Manjrekar.
Sarfaraz Khan was the star performer for Mumbai, finishing with an unbeaten 222 as they posted an impressive total of 537 in their first innings. Captain Ajinkya Rahane also made a notable contribution, scoring 97 runs off 234 balls.
For the Rest of India, Abhimanyu Easwaran excelled with 191 runs, while Dhruv Jurel chipped in with 93. Shams Mulani and Tanush Kotian each claimed three wickets, helping to dismiss ROI for 416 and giving Mumbai a vital first-innings lead of 121 runs.
Prithvi Shaw made a strong contribution for Mumbai in their second innings, scoring 76 runs off 105 balls. Despite his efforts, Mumbai lost wickets at regular intervals, finding themselves at 171-8. Tanush Kotian then stepped up, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 114 and swinging the momentum decisively in Mumbai's favor.
At the conclusion of Day 5, Mumbai were at 329-8, leading by 450 runs. The match concluded in a draw, but Mumbai secured victory based on their first-innings lead. Sarfaraz Khan was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding double-century in the first innings.
“This trophy belongs to all the Mumbaikars” - Ajinkya Rahane after winning the Irani Cup 2024
During the post-match presentation, Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane commended Sarfaraz Khan and Tanush Kotian for their significant contributions. He also expressed that this trophy belongs to all Mumbaikars and club cricketers. He stated:
“Special feeling, winning after 27 years feels amazing. We knew before the game we were up against a very good team. We wanted to bat first as it's a red-soil wicket, we play at the Wankhede so we know how it behaves. Every session counts in a five-day game, everyone batted well, Sarfaraz, but want to mention one name - Tanush, last season he was amazing and this game as well.
“This trophy belongs to all the Mumbaikars, all the maidaan people, club cricketers, I want to play the game in the right way and be truthful to the game,” Rahane added [as quoted by Cricbuzz].
Mumbai will face Baroda in their first match of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, beginning on October 11.