Mumbai team to be felicitated after first Irani Cup win in 27 years

The Mumbai Cricket Association will felicitate the Ajinkya Rahane-led side in a ceremony after it clinched its first Irani Cup in 27 years.

In Short

• Mumbai cricket team wins Irani Cup after 27 years
• The Ajinkya Rahane-led team will be felicitated
• The iconic Wankhede Stadium will host the event

The Ajinkya Rahane-led Mumbai cricket team will be felicitated by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) in a grand ceremony after ending a 27-year wait for their Irani Cup victory. The iconic Wankhede Stadium will host the event, marking a proud moment for Mumbai Cricket as they claimed their 15th Irani Cup title. The MCA president, Ajinkya Naik, confirmed that the ceremony would be attended by MCA board officials, Apex Council members, maidan and club representatives, and the Cricket Improvement Committee.

Mumbai's emphatic win came against the Rest of India (ROI), with the Ranji Trophy champions producing a first-innings lead of 121 runs-a decisive moment that secured their first Irani Cup win since the 1997-98 season. Speaking to PTI, Naik praised the team's determination and their continued excellence on the domestic circuit.

"Once again, Mumbai demonstrated an outstanding example of grit and determination. The boys upheld the tradition of playing 'khadoos' cricket, excelling throughout the five days," Naik said. "It was a perfect display of teamwork, with each player fulfilling their role brilliantly. After last year's Ranji Trophy victory, this Irani Cup triumph adds another feather to our cap."

The triumph was fuelled by Mumbai and India batter Sarfaraz Khan, who laid a strong foundation with a magnificent unbeaten 222 runs in the first innings. All-rounder Tanush Kotian's stellar 114 in the second innings further solidified Mumbai's position, eclipsing a fighting knock of 191 from ROI's Abhimanyu Easwaran. Mumbai set an imposing 450-run target for ROI, with limited time left on the final day, leading to an agreement between ROI skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rahane to call the game, sealing Mumbai's victory.

This win continues Mumbai's legacy of domestic dominance and adds another chapter to their cricketing history. For the cricketing city, the upcoming felicitation ceremony will be a moment to honor not only the team's recent success but also the enduring spirit of Mumbai cricket.