The Bharat Ratna Shree Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow is abuzz with excitement as the inter-state season kicks off with the Z.R. Irani Cup tie between Mumbai and the Rest of India (RoI). The camaraderie and bonhomie between the two squads were evident during the practice sessions, but the competitive spirit will be on full display come Tuesday.
Mumbai, the reigning Ranji Trophy champions, will be eager to regain the Irani Cup after a three-decade drought. Beating a formidable RoI side, which boasts a galaxy of India stars, is considered the ultimate test for a Ranji champion. Ajinkya Rahane and his Mumbai team will be determined to start their Ranji title defense with a bang.
The RoI squad, on the other hand, will be bolstered by the addition of Yash Dayal and Dhruv Jurel, who were released from India’s Test squad. Their presence will pose additional selection dilemmas for both camps. Mumbai may consider handing a debut to promising youngster Ayush Mhatre or giving Siddhesh Lad his first First Class appearance in four years.
Beyond the team make-up, the bigger selection battles will be with an eye on the upcoming tour of Australia. The Australia selection tussle could add an extra layer of intrigue to what promises to be a thrilling contest.
