The Irani Cup is back for the first time in more than three years, with 2019-20 Ranji Trophy champions Saurashtra set to host Rest of India in Rajkot from October 1 to 5.

The BCCI has now given Saurashtra a belated chance to test itself against the best first-class players in the country. It is not yet clear when MP, the current Ranji champions, will get to contest the Irani Cup.

"It is very heartening that Domestic Season 2022-23 of BCCI are to be played in full swing and Irani Cup is to be played after two long years," a Saurashtra Cricket Association statement said. "With good representation of Mr. Jaydev Shah, President, Saurashtra Cricket Association, BCCI has kindly considered to play Irani Cup in earlier format, i.e. Irani Cup used to be played between Ranji Trophy champion of previous year vs Rest of India.

"Saurashtra Cricket Association sincerely thank Shri Jaybhai Shah, Hon. Secretary, BCCI and all at BCCI for kindly considering Saurashtra Cricket Association's request to host and play prestigious Irani Cup 2022."