Irani Cup Moved from Mumbai to Lucknow

Mumbai:The 2024-25 Irani Cup, originally slated to take place in Mumbai, has been relocated to Lucknow. The prestigious match, featuring reigning Ranji Trophy champions Mumbai against Rest of India, is set to commence on October 1.

ESPNcricinfo has learned that the venue change is a precautionary measure to avoid potential weather disruptions, as Mumbai continues to experience an extended monsoon season.

"This year's Irani Cup match will be held in Lucknow and we are excited to host it," Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association (UPCA) Secretary Arvind Kumar Srivastava said in a statement to ESPNcricinfo. This will be the first time Lucknow will host the Irani Cup, marking a significant milestone for the city.

The Irani Cup match will begin on the final day of India's second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, meaning that players involved in the Test squad will not participate in the Irani Cup.

Mumbai clinched their 42nd Ranji Trophy title this year by defeating Vidarbha by 169 runs at the Wankhede Stadium. Last year, Rest of India emerged victorious over Saurashtra by 175 runs to claim the Irani Cup, with left-arm spinner Saurabh Kumar notably taking a 10-wicket haul in the match.