Indian domestic cricket has traditionally been dominated by powerhouse teams, such as Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Mumbai, which have ruled the domestic circuit for decades due to their strong infrastructure and deep talent pools. While this dominance raised overall standards, it also created an imbalance, limiting opportunities for emerging cricketing states. To address this challenge and promote competitive balance, the BCCI introduced the Plate category in the 2018-19 Vijay Hazare Trophy, allowing developing teams to grow, compete among themselves, and earn promotion to the Elite Group in the following season.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy, first introduced in the 1993-94 season, began as a 50 over or the ODI knockout competition for Ranji Trophy. In 2002-03, it was renamed in honour of Indian cricket legend Vijay Hazare. Over the years, the tournament has played a crucial role in identifying and preparing players for the international stage, particularly in limited overs cricket.
Until the late 2010s, all domestic teams competed under a single structure. However, the BCCI observed that newer and developing states were not receiving adequate match exposure or competitive opportunities. To counter this, the Elite – Plate system was introduced, ensuring a fairer distribution of chances. The Plate Group created a level playing field allowing teams to compete in evenly matched contests focus on steady development and strengthen cricket at both grassroots and domestic levels. The top-performing Plate teams are rewarded with promotion.
Read Also:- Highest Successful Run Chase in SMAT
The upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy season is scheduled to be played from 24 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. Once again, it will serve as a vital platform for emerging players and state teams. Plate Group participants this season include Nagaland, Bihar, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Among these, Bihar stands out as a team capable of drawing attention. Over recent seasons, Bihar has shown visible improvement in organisation and talent development. The presence of exciting young prospects such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi adds significant promise, while experienced domestic batters provide stability in the middle order. Bihar’s balanced combination of youth and experience makes it a side to watch in the Plate Group, with genuine potential to challenge for promotion.
As Indian domestic cricket continues to widen its base, the Plate category of the Vijay Hazare Trophy remains a crucial pillar in ensuring inclusivity, competitiveness, and long-term growth across the domestic landscape.
