Baroda Cricket Association played pivotal role in transforming Ranji Trophy format

VADODARA: This Ranji season, cricketers across the country will play the matches in a completely new format adopted by Board of Control for Cricket in India (Bwherein all the 27 Ranji teams have been divided into three categories. The new format is expected to benefit all the Ranji teams as they will be able to play more matches against each other.While the cricketers have welcomed the move, few know that Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) played pivotal role in the BCCI's decision of changing the Ranji format. Suggestions to improve cricket at first-class level were first discussed in the captains and coaches conclave that was held some months ago.
"We had made some suggestions of which one was to bring in new format that could give equal platforms to all the teams. BCA had suggested doing away with elite and plate league as it would give all the teams more chances to perform," said BCA vice-president Samarjitsinh Gaekwad.
"Earlier, players were judged according to the league they played in. If some player performed well in plate league his performance wasn't given due importance as it was assumed that his opponents were weak. The new format will give everyone level-playing field. The idea is to improve cricket across the country," Gaekwad told TOI and added that now Ranji Trophy would be more like national championship.
BCA sources said the conclave was attended by Baroda Ranji captain Pinal Shah and coach Sanath Kumar. The issue was discussed by BCCI's technical committee and then cleared by the working committee recently. As of now, Ranji teams get to play about six matches in the league stage in Ranji Trophy. However, the new format will ensure that the teams play at least eight matches against each other in league round. In the altered format, the 27 Ranji teams have been divided into A, B C groups and each group has nine teams.
"Three top teams of the plate league have been put in A and B groups that will increase the number of matches played in both the groups. Earlier, players had to miss out on entire season if they missed a couple of Ranji games due injuries or other reasons. But now, they will have more chances to perform," said BCA sources.
"Indian team is weak on fast wickets and it was evident in our 4-0 thrashing in both Australia and England. We had also suggested to allow two bouncers per over in Ranji games so that batsmen get used to playing such deliveries. Also, we had suggested that BCCI should announce award for best curator - for preparing quality wicket - after every Ranji season," Gaekwad said.