Irani Cup — India's Invitation Cricket Match Explained
The Irani Cup is India's prestigious annual invitation match between the Ranji Trophy champion and the Rest of India, one of cricket's oldest domestic fixtures.
The Season Opener
The Irani Cup is India's prestigious annual first-class cricket match, typically played at the start of the domestic season. It pits the previous year's Ranji Trophy champions against a Rest of India XI selected by national selectors. The match is a five-day affair and is considered both a showcase for domestic talent and a selection trial, particularly for fringe Test candidates.
History and Prestige
The Irani Trophy dates back to 1959-60, named after Syed Meer Abbas Irani, a former BCCI official. It has traditionally been played at the Ranji champions' home ground. Some of cricket's finest individual performances have come in Irani Cup matches, where players — eyeing Test selection — push for maximum performance on familiar surfaces.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Irani Cup in cricket?
The Irani Cup is an annual Indian first-class match between the Ranji Trophy champions and a Rest of India XI. It is a prestige fixture and selection trial for the India Test squad.