Tanush Kotian's determined and unbeaten hundred helped Mumbai lift the 15th Irani Cup trophy which was sealed by their first innings lead over rest of India on the fifth and final day in Lucknow on Saturday.
Mumbai’s last Irani Cup victory came 27 years ago during the 1997-98 season and since then the domestic powerhouse appeared in eight more finals without success and the last of which was in the 2015-16 season.
Mumbai, who started the final day from overnight 153 for six, declared their second innings at 329 for eight for an overall lead of 450 runs.
Kotian scored 64 in the first innings and resumed his innings on 20, remained not out on 114 off 150 balls, hitting 10 fours and a six.
Knowing that chasing 451 runs in just over a session was tough, Rest of India captain Ruturaj Gaikwad shook hands with Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane.
This gesture marked the end of the match and gave Mumbai the victory.
Kotian, who showed remarkable maturity to steer Mumbai innings after the early departure of Sarfaraz Khan (17) and Shardul Thakur (2), received good support from No. 10 Mohit Avasthi.
Mumbai were 171 for seven at that stage.
Avasthi remained unbeaten on 51 off 93 balls, striking four fours and a six, and helped Kotian to add valuable 158 runs for the ninth wicket.
Off-spinner Saransh Jain took six wickets (6/121) but his efforts could only delay the inevitable.
Mumbai skipper Rahane was understandably delighted. “Winning the trophy after 27 years feels amazing. It was a red-soil wicket. I would like to pick Tanush Kotian for his performances in the previous season and this match,” Rahane said.
“The Ranji Trophy and Irani Cup belong to everyone – from the maidan cricketers to everyone playing cricket in Mumbai,” he added.
Sarfaraz was adjudged player of the match for his double hundred in Mumbai’s first innings.
“I followed the process well and came into the tournament with practice. You build up experience by playing in different grounds. You get knowledge on how to play on different pitches,” said Sarfaraz.
“I have a lot to learn by being around the Test team and can improve every facet of my game,” added Sarfaraz.
Mumbai Cricket Association president Ajinkya Nayak lauded the team for the win.
“Congratulations to the Mumbai Team for clinching the Irani Cup! Once again, Mumbai demonstrated an outstanding example of grit and determination,” said Ajinkya Nayak.
Brief scores: Mumbai: 537 all out and 329/8 declared in 78 overs (Tanush Kotian 114 not out, Mohit Avasthi 51 not out, Prithvi Shaw 76; Saransh Jain 6/121) drew Rest of India: 416 all out.
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