Kotian's century ends Mumbai's 27-year wait for Irani Cup

The match between Mumbai and Rest of India ended in a draw, with Mumbai scoring 537 in their first innings with a remarkable knock of 222* by Sarfaraz and a solid contribution of 97 by Rahane. Mukesh was the standout bowler for Rest of India with figures of 5-110. In response, Rest of India managed to score 416 in their first innings, with Abhimanyu leading the way with a brilliant knock of 191 and Jurel adding 93 runs. Kotian was the pick of the bowlers for Mumbai with figures of 3-101. In their second innings, Mumbai declared at 329 for 8, with Kotian top-scoring with an unbeaten 114* and Shaw adding 76 runs. Saransh was the standout bowler for Rest of India with figures of 6-121. Despite some outstanding individual performances, the match ended in a draw with both teams putting up a strong fight.

Tanush Kotian scored his second first class century on the fifth day of the Irani Cup as Mumbai won the title on the basis of their first-innings lead, lifting the trophy for the first time since the 1997-98 season.

Kotian added 94 runs to his overnight total of 20 as Mumbai batted through the day, declaring with a 450-run lead when Rest of India agreed to end the match as a draw. Kotian became the first batter to cross fifty twice in an Irani Cup game while batting at No. 8 or lower. Offspinner Saransh Jain picked up a six-wicket haul, but Rest of India were unable to bowl Mumbai out with enough time to have a crack at their total.

Mumbai began the day with a 274-run lead, with Kotian at the crease with Sarfaraz Khan. Saransh trapped Sarfaraz lbw in the fourth over of the day, and two overs later, had Shardul Thakur stumped.

But Kotian and Mohit Awasthi batted 200 balls, adding 158 runs, to seal Mumbai's victory.

Rest of India turned to eight bowlers in total, including Ishan Kishan, Sai Sudharsan and Devdutt Padikkal, but could not add to their two strikes early in the day.

Kotian, who made 64 in the first innings, hit ten fours and a six as he batted out 150 balls for his unbeaten 114.

Awasthi, meanwhile, hit a six of his own and stroked four fours as he scored his maiden first class half-century.