Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Format, Teams, Venue and Key Dates

Ranji Trophy 2024-25 - All you need to know [Source: @sachin_rt/x.com]Ranji Trophy 2024-25 - All you need to know [Source: @sachin_rt/x.com]

India’s most prestigious domestic red-ball cricket tournament, the Ranji Trophy, is back in action for the 2024-25 season. Known as the breeding ground for Indian cricket's future stars, the competition is set to begin on Friday, October 11, 2024, and will run until March 2025.

Here's everything you need to know about this thrilling season that promises edge-of-the-seat cricket action across the country.

What’s New In Ranji Trophy 2024-25?

The Ranji Trophy 2024-25 will be split into two phases, separated by the T20 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and the 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy.

This unique schedule change, introduced by the BCCI, aims to mitigate weather-related interruptions, particularly in North India, and to better manage fast bowlers' workloads.

This year, Mumbai, the defending champions, will strive to protect their crown after claiming their 42nd Ranji title in 2023-24. With teams across regions battling to take home the silverware, expect gripping cricketing duels on the cards.

What Is the Format for Ranji Trophy 2024-25?

The Ranji Trophy format includes a promotion-relegation system that adds another layer of excitement. The bottom two teams from each of the four Elite groups will face relegation to the Plate division.

On the contrary, the top two teams from the Plate division’s finals will earn a coveted spot in the Elite tier for the next season.

Last season saw Goa and Manipur relegated to the Plate division, while Nagaland and Hyderabad made the leap to the Elite division. This season could see a new set of underdogs rise to the challenge and prove their mettle.

What’s The Difference Between Elite and Plate Divisions?

A whopping 38 teams will compete this season, divided into two tiers – Elite and Plate divisions. 

Elite Division

The Elite division includes 32 teams, where each team will play seven matches in the group stage, with the top two from each group advancing to the quarter-finals. The bottom two teams from each group will be relegated to the Plate division for the next season, adding pressure to every game

Plate Division

The remaining six make up the Plate division. They will compete in a single round-robin format, with each team playing five matches. The top four teams from this round will progress to the semi-finals, with the two finalists earning promotion to the Elite division in the following season.

When and Where Will the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Be Played?

All matches for 2024-25 edition of Ranji Trophy will start at 9:30 AM IST

Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Key Dates to Mark

  • Group Stage Start Date: October 11, 2024
  • Plate Final: January 23, 2025
  • Elite Quarter-Finals: February 8, 2025
  • Semi-Finals: February 17, 2025
  • Final: February 26, 2025