Why in the News?

The Irani Cup title has returned to Mumbai after a 27-year gap. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the reigning Ranji champions drew the match against the Rest of India, achieving victory based on their first innings lead in the five-day match.

About Irani Cup

• It is a prestigious tournament which is part of India’s domestic cricket calendar.
• Participants: Contested between the reigning Ranji Trophy champions and a multi-state team known as the Rest of India.
• Sponsor: IDFC First Bank.
• Inaugural Edition: First played in March 1960 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Ranji Trophy.
• Establishment as Annual Fixture: Initially intended as a one-off match; made an annual fixture by the BCCI in 1962.
• Naming: Named after Zal R. Irani, a key figure in the BCCI from its inception in 1928 until his death in 1970.
• Last Three Winners
• Season 2022-23: Rest of India (winner), Madhya Pradesh (runner-up)
• Season 2023-24: Rest of India (winner), Saurashtra (runner-up)
• Season 2024-25: Mumbai (winner), Rest of India (runner-up)