The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially released the schedule for the 2026-27 domestic season, confirming that the Ranji Trophy will adhere to the two-phase format. The premier first-class tournament is set to commence on October 11, while the domestic calendar will kick off with the Duleep Trophy on August 23.
The upcoming season will feature an extensive 1,788 matches across multiple categories in both men's and women's cricket. The competitions will encompass U-16, U-19, U-23, and senior tournaments in the men's circuit, alongside U-15, U-19, U-23, and senior events in the women's structure.
In a notable shift, the BCCI has decided to convert the U-23 one-day tournament and the inter-zonal university competition for the Vizzy Trophy into a T20 format, aligning with the evolving demands of modern cricket. The board stated, "The 2026-27 domestic season reflects the BCCI's continued commitment to building a strong and competitive domestic structure while ensuring a balanced progression across formats and categories."
Duleep Trophy and Irani Cup
The Duleep Trophy, returning to a zonal format, will be played from August 23 to September 10, with all matches hosted at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. The Irani Cup, featuring Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir against Rest of India, is scheduled from October 1 to 5 in Srinagar.
Ranji Trophy Two-Phase Format
The Ranji Trophy, the flagship event of BCCI's domestic calendar, will have its first phase from October 11 to November 5, comprising four rounds. The second phase will take place from January 17 to March 3, 2027, following the completion of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (National T20s) and the Vijay Hazare Trophy (National 50-over meet).
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy will be held from November 14 to December 6. The league stages will be hosted in Mumbai, Mohali, Vizag, and Kolkata, while the knockout stage will take place in Nagpur. The timing of this tournament allows talent scouts to prepare their lists ahead of the IPL auction, typically held in December.
Vijay Hazare Trophy
The Vijay Hazare Trophy is scheduled from December 14, 2026, to January 8, 2027.
Vijay Merchant Trophy
A positive decision by BCCI's scheduling team is to hold the Vijay Merchant Trophy (U-16) from November to January, enabling improved scheduling and player preparation. This also helps school cricketers prepare for their annual or board exams, which generally occur in February and March.
