Intro
BCCI officials believe the possible shift could better align age-group cricket with modern T20 demands and global leagues.
New Delhi
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering a major structural change to its domestic pathway programme, with plans to convert the Under-23 men’s 50-over national tournament into the T20 format from the 2026–27 season. The proposed shift is still at a preliminary stage, and the board is expected to consult state associations and other key stakeholders before taking a final decision.
It is learnt that the board will seek opinions of state associations and former players, along with other respected voices in Indian cricket, before implementing any change. Officials indicated that feedback will be collected over the coming months as part of a broader review of domestic structures.
The tournament, currently known as the State A Championship, is divided into Elite and Plate divisions, following the existing domestic structure. Tamil Nadu are the defending champions in the Elite category, while Meghalaya hold the Plate division title from the previous season.
The corresponding Under-23 red-ball competition continues to be played as the Col CK Nayudu Trophy, which remains an important platform for identifying long-format talent at the junior level.
BCCI officials believe the possible shift could help better align age-group cricket with the modern demands of the shortest format, given the rising prominence of T20 leagues globally and the need to prepare players for high-pressure situations. However, concerns remain among some administrators who feel that reducing 50-over exposure at the U-23 level may impact the development of one-day skills and match temperament required for senior domestic cricket and international ODIs.
According to sources, the proposal is expected to be placed before the BCCI’s domestic structure committee in the coming weeks, after which formal discussions with state associations will begin. Any final decision is likely to be taken ahead of the 2026–27 domestic season schedule. If approved, the revamped competition could mark another significant shift in India’s age-group cricket pathway system.
The BCCI has not issued an official statement yet and maintains that consultations are ongoing, with all options currently under consideration for the next phase of domestic cricket reforms. The review process continues across India.
