New Delhi, India — The Ranji Trophy 2024–25 is in full swing, bringing the spotlight back to India’s premier domestic cricket competition. This year’s edition, which marks the 90th season, features a restructured format and a renewed focus on identifying emerging talent from across the country.

Revamped Format

The tournament has been split into two divisions: the Elite Group with 32 teams and the Plate Group with six teams. Matches in the Elite Group are being played across four groups, with each team facing seven others in a round-robin format. The top two from each group advance to the knockout stage, set to begin on February 8, 2025, while the Plate Group finalists gain promotion to the Elite Group for the next season. (bcci.tv)

Standout Performances

This season has already witnessed exceptional performances:

• Anshul Kamboj, a fast bowler from Haryana, etched his name in history by claiming all 10 wickets in a single innings against Kerala, becoming only the third player in Ranji Trophy history to achieve this feat.
• Young batters like Aaryan Sharma from Delhi and Aditya Menon from Mumbai have impressed with consistent centuries, showcasing their readiness for higher levels of cricket.

Talent Pipeline for Team India

The Ranji Trophy remains the backbone of India’s cricketing structure, providing a platform for players to prove their mettle. Selectors are keeping a close eye on standout performances, with the tournament serving as a crucial stepping stone for national selection.

Economic Boost and Fan Engagement

With matches streamed live and increased media coverage, the Ranji Trophy has attracted greater fan engagement. Stadiums in cities like Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Jaipur have reported higher attendance, reflecting renewed interest in domestic cricket.

Future Prospects

As the knockout stage approaches, the competition intensifies, with states vying for the coveted trophy. This year’s edition highlights India’s depth in cricketing talent, reaffirming the importance of a robust domestic structure.

Looking Ahead

The Ranji Trophy 2025 not only celebrates the heritage of Indian cricket but also serves as a platform to discover future stars. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect thrilling encounters and new records to be set.