The upcoming 2024-25 domestic cricket season will see extended intervals between matches to facilitate player recovery, ensuring optimal performance throughout the season. The prestigious Ranji Trophy will be divided into two phases. While the official dates are pending BCCI’s announcement, potential reforms await approval from the BCCI’s Apex Council.
The season will commence with the Duleep Trophy, featuring four teams selected by national selectors, followed by the Irani Cup. Subsequently, the Ranji Trophy’s initial phase will consist of the first five league games per team, followed by the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy T20 competition and the Vijay Hazare Trophy 50-over tournament. The season will culminate with the remaining two league games of the Ranji Trophy and its knockout stages, as per the statement by board secretary Jay Shah.
Moreover, the CK Nayadu Trophy, a domestic under-23 state tournament, will adopt a new point system aimed at balancing performances by rewarding batting and bowling performances in addition to the first innings lead or outright win.
A review at the season’s end will evaluate the effectiveness of this new system, with a decision on its potential implementation in the following Ranji Trophy season. Tosses will no longer occur in CK Nayadu Trophy games; instead, visiting teams will decide whether to bat or bowl first.
Additionally, all Women’s Interzonal tournaments, spanning one-day, T20, and Multiday formats, will feature teams selected by national selectors. To ensure players receive ample game time, careful scheduling will minimize the impact of weather disruptions.
These recommendations stem from a working group, including India men’s head coach Rahul Dravid, National Cricket Academy chief VVS Laxman, men’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and former India pacer Abey Kuruvilla, requiring approval from the BCCI Apex Council for implementation, as affirmed by BCCI general manager – domestic cricket.
