The Jiji Irani Challenge Cup cricket tournament is set to be held in Hyderabad from January 11 to 15. The tournament is played once a year between Kolkata Nagpur, Jamshedpur, Secunderabad/Hyderabad and Surat.
The tournament was started in the memory of late Jiji Irani, the father of cricket in the Vidarbha district in Maharashtra. The legendary figure, he played against Douglas Jardine and the MCC.
The pentangular tournament has become a big event with youngsters from all 5 cities. The aim is to bring all talents to meet, intermingle, and promote close camaraderie.
The tournament, which started nearly four decades ago is played in memory of the late Dr. Jamshed J Irani, who supported the tournament initially.
Only Nagpur and Jamshedpur cricket teams played, but the tournament later included Secunderabad Kolkata and Surat.
The tournament celebrates its 36th year and is being hosted by the Zoroastrian Club of Secunderabad and Hyderabad.
The president of the Zoroastrian Club, Bahman Karaka and Cricket Convener minooSiganporia is being ably assisted by the vice-president and members of the managing committee, committee members and dozens of hard-working organizers and volunteers to ensure that the matches and celebrations go off smoothly and in style.
The match will be played 30 overs per side being organized at the D’Marc Cricket Academy grounds.
The first day’s matches will be played between Hyderabad and Surat, and Calcutta and Nagpur.
“I’m eagerly looking forward to the 36th Jiji Irani Challenge Cup Cricket tournament, a tradition that has been such a big part of my life for the past 29 years. This tournament isn’t just about cricket it’s about everything it has given me.”
It shaped me as a sportsman, taught me discipline and teamwork, and even introduced me to my wife during one of the tours. Over the years, I’ve made friendships that feel more like family.”
“Beyond the game, this tournament holds a special place in my heart as a Parsi. It’s a time when our community comes together, celebrating our shared roots, camaraderie, and the joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves.”
“For me, it’s more than just a tournament – it’s a celebration of life, community, and everything good that cricket has brought into my world,” said Varzavand Debara of Team Hyderabad.
