Ranji Trophy is India's premier domestic cricket tournament, named after the legendary Indian cricketer Ranjitsinhji. First held in 1935, it has since become a crucial fixture in the Indian cricket calendar. Over thirty regional teams from various states and cricket associations across India compete in this prestigious tournament. Popular teams include Mumbai, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Saurashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Mumbai, in particular, has established itself as the most dominant team, having won the championship multiple times.

The tournament is divided into two stages: the group stage and the knockout stage. Typically held from November to February each year, teams accumulate points in the group stage, with the top performers advancing to the knockout stage. In this phase, teams compete in a single-elimination format to determine the champion.

Regarded as a key event for domestic cricketers, Ranji Trophy has played a significant role in shaping the careers of many top Indian players. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Kapil Dev, Anil Kumble, and Sunil Gavaskar showcased their skills in this competition before making their mark on the international stage. The tournament offers invaluable experience and training in long-format cricket, helping players hone their skills and potentially earn a place in the Indian national team.