Irani Trophy 2025-26: Format, Winners, Why It Matters
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The Irani Trophy is a historic one-off first-class match between Ranji Trophy champions and Rest of India. It's played annually since 1959-60 and is one of Indian cricket's most prestigious matches.
Format
5-day first-class match, one innings each (plus follow-on rules). Ranji champions vs Rest of India XI.
2025-26 edition
Played between the Ranji champion and Rest of India selection. See Ranji Trophy rules format.
Why Irani matters
Scouting showcase for national team hopefuls — think of it as the All-Star first-class game.
Historical significance
Named after the late Z R Irani; held annually since 1959.
Related reading
Duleep Trophy format, Ranji Trophy rules, and Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Irani Trophy?
Annual first-class game — Ranji champion vs Rest of India.
How long is an Irani match?
5 days.
How is the Rest of India team picked?
National selectors pick the best 15 from non-champion sides.
When did Irani Trophy start?
1959-60.
Who won Irani 2025-26?
See Ranji Trophy hub for confirmed Ranji champion → Irani participant.
The takeaway
Bookmark the IPL 2026 points table, schedule, and Dream11 tools.
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Rahul Sharma
Expert in: How To GuidesRahul Sharma has played district-level cricket in Mumbai for 8 years and has personally tested more than 50 bats, pads, gloves, and helmets across different price ranges. He joined CricJosh to help Indian club cricketers make smarter equipment choices without overpaying. His reviews are based on real match and net session use, not sponsored samples.
Why trust this review: Rahul has used every product in this review across multiple match and net sessions before writing a word. He buys equipment at retail price and accepts no free samples.
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