Irani Cup 2024-25: Hope for India comeback not all lost for Ajinkya Rahane

The Irani Cup 2024-25 is well underway on Day 2, as Mumbai skipper Ajinkya Rahane resumed alongside Sarfaraz Khan after 237/4 overnight against Rest Of India in the first innings. At Stumps on the opening day, Rahane had already scored 86 with the thoughts of getting to the three-figure mark the next morning.

Well, that did not quite happen as ROI pacer Yash Dayal raided Rahane's home before the party even began, as the batter walked back just three runs short of his century. Nevertheless, Rahane did play the captain's knock, after Mumbai were reduced to 37 for 3 at one stage.

During his stay at the crease, the Ashwi-KD-born did manage notable partnerships, the first one being that of 102 runs with Shreyas Iyer, who himself made a solid 57 off 84. Later, Sarfaraz joined the well-set batter for 131-run partnership, before Dayal got Rahane caught by Dhruv Jurel behind the wickets. This marked Jurel's third catch in the five wickets that have fallen so far.

Watch Ajinkya Rahane's dismissal here:

It is important to mention that the veteran batter was watchful throughout his innings, and did not look hasty to score runs quickly under pressure. His half-century was laced with 10 boundaries and a maximum across the 234 balls he faced. Nonetheless, Rahane will be hoping for an even better knock in the second innings, and put his strong case forward hoping for India comeback once again.

Sarfaraz eyes big score

Speaking of Sarfaraz Khan, the no. 6 batter has been in sensational touch for the Mumbaikers. Consistency has been his biggest strength, at least in the domestic circuit, and he continued his merry run once again. The 26-year-old resumed his knock on Day 2 from 54 off 88 balls, and is all set for yet another century.

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At the time of writing the article, Sarfaraz is batting on 76, but he will need some support from the other end to help his cause. Meanwhile, Mumbai have lost six of their wickets, as vice-captain Shams Mulani followed Rahane's suit soon, castled by a ripper from Mukesh Kumar, becoming the seamer's fourth victim. Sarfaraz is at the middle alongside Tanush Kotian currently.