The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced significant changes to its domestic cricket calendar for the 2024-25 season, including the elimination of the toss in CK Nayudu Trophy matches. This move aims to address the issue of home teams preparing pitches that favor their strengths, particularly in the Under-23 tournament. Instead, the visiting team will now have the option to choose whether to bat or bowl first.
Another innovation introduced in the CK Nayudu Trophy is a new points system designed to promote balanced performances. Points will be awarded for batting and bowling performances in the first innings, as well as for the first innings lead or outright win. This system is similar to the one used in the English County Championship and may be implemented in the Ranji Trophy next season if it proves successful.
The Ranji Trophy will also undergo a major change, being split into two phases. The first five games will be played after the Duleep Trophy, which will kick off the domestic season, followed by the Irani Cup and the white-ball tournaments. The last two Ranji league matches and the knockout stages will be held at the end of the season. This adjustment aims to minimize the impact of weather disruptions, particularly in the North and East Zones.
The Duleep Trophy will feature four teams selected by the national selectors, indicating the BCCI’s departure from the zonal system. Additionally, the gap between Ranji Trophy matches will be increased to allow players more time for recovery and to maintain peak performance throughout the season.
In women’s cricket, all Inter-zonal tournaments will have teams selected by the national selectors, ensuring a more competitive and balanced playing field.
These changes are part of a broader effort by the BCCI to revamp domestic cricket and create a more equitable and challenging environment for players. The recommendations were made by a four-member committee led by India’s head coach Rahul Dravid and will be submitted to the Apex Council for approval.
