222 And Absolute Dominance: Throwback To Sarfaraz Khan’s Unforgettable Irani Cup Heroics

Sarfaraz Khan's outstanding innings (Source: @CricCrazyJohns/x.com)Indian cricket has never faced a shortage of talent, as the domestic circuit has shaped some of the greatest talents who later ruled world cricket. Beyond the grandeur of the Ranji Trophy, tournaments like the prestigious Irani Cup have also played a crucial role in unearthing and showcasing India’s finest domestic talents.The tournament has witnessed several outstanding knocks, but Sarfaraz Khan’s unbeaten 222 remains one of its unforgettable classics. Before the batter takes the field once again on October 1, let’s relive his heroics.Mumbai Fight Tooth And Nail To Keep ROI In CheckMumbai enjoyed a memorable Ranji Trophy 2024 campaign, adding another glorious title to their already decorated cabinet. However, another stern challenge awaited them as they faced the Rest of India in the Irani Cup later that season. The situation was tough, but Mumbai batters refused to back down as ROI bowlers tried their best. While batting first, Mumbai lost two quick wickets within three overs and then made a fierce comeback. Leading the side, Ajinkya Rahane stitched a 31-run stand with Ayush Mhatre. Adding more pressure on the opponent, Shreyas Iyer joined captain Rahane at the crease. As ROI bowlers hoped for an early domination, the Iyer- Rahane duo stitched a clinical 102-run partnership. Their commanding stand provided a huge boost to Mumbai as the ROI bowlers found themselves under mounting pressure.Also Read: Rest Of India Squad For Irani Cup Announced, Sarfaraz Khan Named Vice CaptainSarfaraz Khan Unleashes His Weapon As The World Watches A MasterclassAfter Shreyas Iyer walked away scoring 57 runs, Sarfaraz Khan walked in, and ROI’s woes deepened from there. Taking the charge, the Mumbai batter smashed all over the ground and scored a stunning fifty in 70 balls. The ROI bowlers tried everything, but the day was meant for the batter. After scoring a stunning ton in just 149 balls, Sarfaraz Khan showed no signs of slowing down, racing to the stunning 150-run mark in 203 balls. He also forged a crucial 130-run partnership with Ajinkya Rahane before the Mumbai skipper returned with a heartbreaking 97. Mumbai was already on driver’s seat but Sarfaraz Khan didn’t show any way to stop the destruction. Turning heads nationwide, he smashed a breathtaking double ton in 253 balls. The opposition bowlers tried everything in their arsenal but failed to stop Sarfaraz Khan, who remained unbeaten on a breathtaking 222 off 286 balls, laced with 25 boundaries and four sixes. With that, he surpassed Ramnath Parker and became the first Mumbai batter to smash a double ton in the Irani Cup. A New Irani Cup Battle AwaitsOn the 25th anniversary of the Ranji Trophy, the Irani Cup was introduced, and from then on, the tournament has created its own legacy. Over the years, the tournament has unearthed several stars who went on to make India proud on the global stage. With the new domestic season approaching, the Irani Cup is all set to return with another exciting edition.After Jammu and Kashmir lifted the prestigious Ranji Trophy in the last edition, they are set to face the Rest of India squad on October 1. Some of the finest talents across the nation are all set to face the champions on the big stage. Also Read: South Africa Test Squad vs Australia Announced, Kagiso Rabada Included