The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 season promises to be one of the most exciting domestic cricket campaigns in recent years. With the possibility of Rishabh Pant’s much-awaited return to competitive cricket, the emergence of promising youngsters, and veterans fighting for relevance, the 91st edition of India’s prestigious red-ball tournament holds great significance.
Rishabh Pant’s Return and a New Era of Talent in Ranji Trophy 2025-26
The 91st edition of the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 kicks off across India with immense anticipation. One of the biggest talking points is Rishabh Pant’s expected return to action following his recovery. If cleared by the National Cricket Academy (CoE), Pant may feature for Delhi either in the second round against Himachal Pradesh (from October 25) or in the third round versus Puducherry (from November 1).
His comeback could be crucial ahead of India’s upcoming Test series against South Africa, starting November 14. For Pant, the Ranji Trophy offers the ideal opportunity to gain match fitness and rhythm before stepping onto the international stage again.
However, beyond Pant’s return, the Ranji Trophy still remains a breeding ground for India’s next generation of cricketing stars. The tournament, which often acts as the foundation for national selection, continues to shape the future of Indian cricket.
Young Talents Rising
This season, several new faces are set to make headlines. Exciting batting talents like R Smaran (Karnataka), Andre Siddarth (Tamil Nadu), Yash Dhull (Delhi), Priyansh Arya (Delhi), Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Bihar), Ayush Mhatre (Mumbai), and Danish Malewar (Vidarbha) are expected to carry their teams’ hopes.
In the bowling department, the spotlight will be on emerging stars such as Harsh Dubey (Vidarbha), Edhen Apple Tom (Kerala), Manav Suthar (Rajasthan), and Gurjapneet Singh (Tamil Nadu) all of whom have already shown glimpses of brilliance in domestic cricket.
For these players, the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 is a perfect platform to strengthen their credentials and be ready for higher honours when opportunities arise.
The Veterans’ Fight for Relevance
While the youngsters look to make their mark, many seasoned players are keen to prove they still have plenty to offer. Cricketers like Ishan Kishan, Prithvi Shaw, Sarfaraz Khan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Rajat Patidar will all seek redemption after slipping out of national reckoning.
Their stories mirror the unpredictable nature of cricket once on the verge of greatness, now fighting to reclaim their spots. Players such as Karun Nair (who returned to Karnataka from Vidarbha) and Narayan Jagadeesan (Tamil Nadu stalwart) serve as reminders that domestic performance can still reignite international careers.
The Veterans’ Final Roar
This season could also mark the final chapter for a few Indian cricket greats. Mohammed Shami, one of India’s most feared pacers, has been out of the Test setup since the 2023 WTC Final and last appeared in the Champions Trophy final earlier this year. Alongside him, Hanuma Vihari, who once played a heroic role in Australia, will be eager to prove he still belongs.
Meanwhile, Ajinkya Rahane, at 37, might be playing his last Ranji season. The Mumbai stalwart will aim to cap his illustrious domestic journey with another Ranji Trophy title a fitting farewell for a man who defined composure and leadership in red-ball cricket.
The Format and Structure
The Ranji Trophy 2025-26 will feature 32 teams in the Elite Group, divided into Groups A, B, C, and D, along with six teams in the Plate Group. The competition will run in two phases:
- First Phase: October 15–18 and November 16–19
- Second Phase: January 22, 2026 – February 24, 2026 (Final)
Between the two phases, teams will participate in India’s premier white-ball tournaments the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy before returning to the red-ball grind.
Defending champions Vidarbha will look to retain their title, while Mumbai, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Karnataka aim to dethrone them. The competition promises thrilling contests, emotional comebacks, and the discovery of India’s next red-ball heroes.
READ MORE: Vaibhav Suryavanshi Makes Ranji Trophy History: Youngest Vice-Captain at Just 14 Years Old
FAQ
When will Ranji Trophy 2025–26 start?
It begins on October 15, 2025, and ends on February 24, 2026.
Will Rishabh Pant play this season?
Yes, he’s expected to return for Delhi if cleared by the NCA.
Who are the top contenders?
Vidarbha, Mumbai, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Karnataka lead the race.
Which young stars to watch?
Yash Dhull, R Smaran, Ayush Mhatre, and Harsh Dubey.
Which veterans might retire?
Ajinkya Rahane, Mohammed Shami, and Hanuma Vihari may play their last season.
