Irani Cup 2026-27: The new season of Indian domestic cricket has kicked off once again with renewed enthusiasm and high hopes. The Irani Cup 2026-27 got off to a spectacular start in Srinagar on October 1st. In this historic clash, the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy champions, Jammu & Kashmir, are facing off against the Rest of India.
Taking place just before the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2026-27 (which begins on October 11), this match not only sets the stage for the new season but has also drawn the keen attention of Indian national selectors. Players from both teams, both young talents and seasoned veterans, will be eager to make their mark through their performances in the Irani Cup. However, there are three young players whom fans and experts will be watching particularly closely
3. Shikhar Mohan (Jharkhand / Rest of India)
Age: 21 Years | Role: Batter
Shikhar Mohan, a 21-year-old rising batter from Jharkhand, proved his mettle during the previous domestic season. He was the highest run-scorer for Jharkhand in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, amassing 613 runs at an impressive average of 55.72 across 12 innings.
His fine form didn’t stop there; he earned the selectors’ confidence by playing two mature innings—scoring 85 and 52 runs—against South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final. It was on the strength of these performances that he secured a spot in the ‘Rest of India’ squad.
On the very first day of the Irani Cup, Shikhar played another fine innings of 60 runs off 118 balls featuring 9 fours and a six, proving that he is a player built for the long haul.
2. Ravichandran Smaran (Karnataka / Rest of India)
Age: 23 Years | Role: Left-Handed Batter
The 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season was nothing short of a dream for Karnataka’s 23-year-old left-handed batter, Ravichandran Smaran. He emerged as the tournament’s highest run-scorer. Smaran amassed 950 runs in just 14 innings at an incredible average of 86.36, including 4 centuries and 3 half-centuries. His marathon, unbeaten knock of 227 runs against Chandigarh was the highlight of the season.
Having been selected for the Rest of India squad, Smaran now has a fantastic opportunity to once again prove his consistency and talent on a major stage like the Irani Cup.
1. Sunil Kumar (Jammu & Kashmir)
Age: Young | Role: Left-Arm Fast Bowler
Left-arm fast bowler Sunil Kumar played a pivotal role in leading Jammu & Kashmir to their historic 2025-26 Ranji Trophy title victory. He claimed 31 wickets in 9 matches last season at a lethal average of 15.77, a tally that included two five-wicket hauls in a single innings.
Partnering with fellow bowler Aquib Nabi, Sunil spearheaded a Jammu & Kashmir pace attack that devastated opposition lineups. A strong performance in the Irani Cup just ahead of the new Ranji season starting on October 11 will significantly boost Sunil’s confidence.
Conclusion
The Irani Cup is not merely a contest for a trophy; it is a premier platform for the future stars of Indian cricket to showcase their talent. Shikhar Mohan’s consistency, Ravichandran Smaran’s ability to play massive innings, and Sunil Kumar’s lethal bowling—these three elements combine to make this contest incredibly exciting.
