The Irani Cup 2024, a prestigious annual fixture in Indian domestic cricket, kicked off with an intense encounter between Mumbai, the reigning Ranji Trophy champions, and the Rest of India (RoI) team. The match, taking place at the Ekana Cricket Stadium Lucknow, saw an early highlight when Devdutt Padikkal pulled off a spectacular diving catch in the slips, sending Mumbai’s opener Prithvi Shaw back to the pavilion in the 3rd over of the first innings.
Devdutt Padikkal’s breathtaking catch
In the third over, bowler Mukesh Kumar delivered a wide ball to Shaw, who went for an expansive drive but got a thick edge instead. The ball flew towards the second slip, where Padikkal was stationed. Reacting with lightning speed, Padikkal dived full-length to his right and plucked the ball out of the air in a breathtaking moment of fielding brilliance. The dismissal was crucial, as Shaw, a dangerous batter had already shown intent by scoring a boundary in his brief stay at the crease. His departure left Mumbai reeling early in the game.
Here is the video:
WHAT. A. CATCH 🔥
Devdutt Padikkal pulls off a stunning catch in slips to dismiss Prithvi Shaw 👏
Mukesh Kumar gets the early breakthrough 👌
Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/Er0EHGOrUJ#IraniCup | @devdpd07 | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/0Qk0cwqcMH
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) October 1, 2024
Shaw’s wicket was the first breakthrough for the Rest of India, and it came at a crucial time. Shaw was dismissed for 4 off 7 balls including one four, caught by Padikkal off Mukesh’s bowling. This brilliant piece of fielding set the tone for a gripping contest on the first day of the Irani Cup.
Also READ: Reason why Sanju Samson has not been selected for the Irani Cup 2024
Mukesh Kumar dominance
Mukesh, who is the pick of the bowlers for RoI, continued his stellar form by taking three crucial wickets in the morning session. In addition to Shaw, Mukesh sent back Ayush Mhatre and Hardik Tamore, leaving Mumbai struggling at 44/3 by the end of 15 overs.
Mumbai’s hopes now rest heavily on their skipper, Ajinkya Rahane, who is still at the crease and will need to anchor the innings if his side is to post a competitive total. Rahane, known for his calm and composed approach, will be tasked with stabilizing the innings and fending off the relentless RoI attack.
The Rest of India, led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, are looking to defend their title after winning the last edition of the Irani Cup. Their early dominance in this match with Mukesh leading the charge, RoI are in a commanding position as the first session of Day 1 continues.
