The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is poised to implement a substantial overhaul of the domestic cricket season, including a split Ranji Trophy schedule and a restructuring of the Duleep Trophy. These changes come after a working group, led by prominent figures like Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, addressed concerns raised by domestic players and coaches.
Split Ranji Trophy, Prioritized Northern India Matches
A key recommendation involves splitting the prestigious Ranji Trophy. The tournament will kick off in the second week of October, following the Irani Cup. The initial five league matches will be spaced further apart, with at least four days between games. This aims to maximize playing time in northern parts of India before peak winter sets in and foggy conditions disrupt matches. The remaining league rounds and knockouts will be scheduled later, ensuring a healthy balance across regions.
The revamped schedule prioritizes white-ball cricket from mid-November to early January. This window aligns with the IPL auction, allowing franchises a dedicated period to scout talent from domestic competitions. Following the white-ball phase, the remaining Ranji Trophy league rounds and knockouts will be held, culminating before the IPL season kickstarts in March.
Revamping the Duleep Trophy: Selector-Picked Teams and New Format
The Duleep Trophy, traditionally a zonal tournament, is also set for a makeover. The proposal suggests scrapping the zonal format and starting the domestic season with a revamped Duleep Trophy featuring just four teams. These teams will be handpicked by the national selectors, potentially offering a platform for standout performers across zones.
Experimenting with Toss-less Cricket: C.K. Nayudu Trophy Trial
The BCCI is considering a novel experiment for the upcoming C.K. Nayudu Trophy (U-23 men’s tournament). The working group recommends doing away with the toss, allowing the visiting team to choose whether to bat or field first. Additionally, a revised points system is proposed, incorporating batting and bowling points alongside the traditional metrics of innings lead and wins. Depending on the success of this trial in the U-23 tournament, the BCCI might consider implementing it in the Ranji Trophy the following season.
Increased Focus on Women’s Cricket: Selector-Picked Teams for Inter-Zonal Tournaments
The working group’s recommendations extend to women’s cricket as well. All women’s inter-zonal tournaments, including one-day, T20, and multi-day formats, will see teams selected by the national selectors. This move aims to elevate the selection process and potentially provide a more even playing field across zones.
The BCCI’s proposed revamp of the domestic season signifies a commitment to addressing player concerns and fostering a more robust domestic cricket structure. The upcoming season promises exciting changes, with the split Ranji Trophy, revamped Duleep Trophy, and potential toss-less U-23 matches creating a new dynamic for Indian cricket.
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