The highly anticipated 2024-25 season of the Ranji Trophy, India's top domestic cricket tournament, begins today with 38 teams divided into Elite and Plate divisions. The first round will see 19 matches played across the country, with teams battling it out for the coveted title. Stay tuned for all the action and updates from the tournament.
Ranji Trophy: Madhya Pradesh vs. Karnataka, Mayank Agarwal's Return
The 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, India's premier domestic cricket competition, kicks off today with a highly anticipated clash between Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Indore. The match marks the return of Mayank Agarwal, the star Karnataka opener who recently led India in the Test series against Bangladesh.
Background
The Ranji Trophy has been contested since 1934 and is named after the late Ranjitsinhji, a legendary Indian cricketer. The tournament features 38 teams, which are divided into Elite and Plate divisions. The Elite division consists of 18 teams, while the Plate division has 20 teams.
The Elite division teams are further divided into four groups, with the top two teams from each group qualifying for the quarterfinals. The Plate division teams are divided into two groups, with the top team from each group advancing to the quarterfinals.
The winner of the Ranji Trophy is crowned the National Champion and receives the prestigious Ranji Trophy.
Madhya Pradesh vs. Karnataka
Madhya Pradesh is the defending champion, having defeated Mumbai in the 2023-24 final. The team is led by Rajat Patidar, the talented batsman who made a century in the final last season.
Karnataka is one of the most successful teams in the history of the Ranji Trophy, having won the title eight times. The team is led by Mayank Agarwal, who has been in impressive form for India in recent months.
Mayank Agarwal's Return
Mayank Agarwal's return to domestic cricket is a major boost for Karnataka. The opener has scored over 10,000 runs in first-class cricket and has represented India in all three formats of the game.
Agarwal's presence is expected to give Karnataka a significant advantage in the Ranji Trophy. The team will be aiming to win its ninth title and regain the trophy it last won in 2015.
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