Ranji Trophy returns with Jaiswal, Rahul, Jadeja in action as India’s Test stars turn to domestic cricket

In the age of the IPL and expanding state T20 leagues, the Ranji Trophy remains Indian cricket’s most prestigious red-ball tournament. Its 92nd edition begins on Sunday, with 37 teams in action in the opening round. Arunachal Pradesh will miss the first round, taking the number to 38 from the next round.The start of the season will have added star power, with Yashasvi Jaiswal turning out for Mumbai, KL Rahul for Karnataka and Washington Sundar for Tamil Nadu before they leave for the India ‘A’ shadow tour of New Zealand. Veteran allrounder Ravindra Jadeja will also be in action for Saurashtra. With India scheduled to play seven Tests over the next four months, two in New Zealand and five at home against Australia, the tournament carries extra significance for domestic performers hoping to push their case.Recent selections have shown that Ranji Trophy performances are being rewarded. Jammu & Kashmir swing bowler Auqib Nabi, who took 60 wickets in 10 matches last season, earned an India call-up. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, Devdutt Padikkal, off-spinner Saransh Jain and Karnataka batter Ravichandran Smaran have also benefited from strong domestic returns.BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the Ranji Trophy remains central to India’s talent pathway.“The Ranji Trophy is the premier domestic cricket tournament in India. All players who want to make a mark nationally and internationally have to take this tournament seriously because all eyes are on performances here,” Saikia told TOI.Saikia reiterated the BCCI’s policy that all available India players must play domestic cricket. “Whoever is available and not on national duty is mandatorily required to participate in the Ranji Trophy or other domestic tournaments,” he said. “It keeps senior players in rhythm and helps youngsters learn by sharing the dressing room with them.”Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.