Ranji Trophy 

Ranji trophy is the domestic and one of the most prestigious national cricket events played between different cities and state sides. It was named after Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji (Jam Sahib of Nawanagar, also known as "Ranji"). 

It was launched after a meeting of the Indian board in July 1934 and the trophy was awarded to the winners by the Maharajah of Patiala. The tournament format was knock-out rounds through to a timeless final.

Till the 2002-03 season the teams were split into 5 zones: North, West, East, south and Central. Early matches were played within the zones on a league basis. Top teams from each zone played in a national knock-out competition, following-on to a final which decided the winner.

Beginning with the 2002-03 season, the zonal system was discarded and a two-division formation of teams was taken on: the Elite and the Plate division.
Elite division comprises of 15 teams which are divided into two groups on eight and seven whereas the Plate division has 2 6-team groups. In both divisions, the top two teans from each group advance to the knock-out phase. The finalists from the Plate division will advance into the Elite division the next year and the two teams at the bottom of the Elite division are demoted.

Bombay won the first Ranji Trophy Championship by defeating North India. Traditionally, most of the teams playing Ranji Trophy represent the states of India even though there are institutional teams such as Railways and Services.