Reports | BCCI likely to revise 2021-22 domestic cricket schedule

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had released a complete domestic calendar ahead of the 2021-22 season last month, featuring the schedule for both men’s and women’s categories across various age groups. As per the fixtures list, the Ranji Trophy was slated to be played from November 16 and February 19, with the Vijay Hazare Trophy scheduled to begin on February 23.

However, sources have hinted that the domestic 50-over competition could now be preponed to November, right after the conclusion of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on November 12. The Ranji Trophy will reportedly be played only after the limited-overs tournaments are over, thereby ensuring enough preparation time for red-ball cricket.

“The Mushtaq Ali Trophy gets over on November 12 and the Ranji Trophy is scheduled to start four days later. So, some state associations had requested the board to look into the matter as it would be difficult to switch to red-ball cricket immediately. The teams need some preparation before playing the longer format,” the source said, as per Sportstar.

As for the junior age-groups, there have been discussions on whether to proceed with the U-16 tournaments, given the pandemic situation across the country. With vaccinations not allowed for under-18 age groups, the prospects seem unlikely.