The Buchi Babu Tournament is a cornerstone of Indian domestic cricket, celebrated for its role in nurturing emerging talent and showcasing competitive red-ball cricket. Organized by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), this prestigious tournament, named after M. Buchi Babu Naidu, the “Father of Madras Cricket,” has been a launching pad for cricketers like Sunil Gavaskar Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan, who have gone on to represent India internationally.
This guide provides everything you need to know about the tournament, from its rich history and 2025 schedule to ticket booking, live updates, and local attractions near the venues.
Read on to discover the tournament’s legacy, key matches, and how to make the most of your visit to the iconic cricket venues hosting this celebrated event.
Key Highlights:
-
Tournament History: A legacy of over a century, producing cricketing legends.
-
2025 Schedule and Venues: Matches across Chennai, Coimbatore, Tirunelveli, and Natham.
-
Live Updates: Real-time scores on Cricbuzz and the TNCA app.
-
Ticketing and Access: Online booking, stadium counters, and early bird discounts.
-
Local Attractions: Hotels, malls, and tourist spots near the venues for an enriched experience.
Buchi Babu Tournament: A Complete Guide to Schedule, Venues, Tickets, and More
The Buchi Babu Tournament, organized by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious domestic cricket competitions. Named after M. Buchi Babu Naidu, a pioneer who introduced cricket to Madras during colonial times the tournament began in the early 1900s and was once India’s premier first-class event before the Ranji Trophy.
It features a mix of state teams like Tamil Nadu, Mumbai, and Karnataka, alongside institutional sides, offering a platform for young talent to shine. The 2025 edition, scheduled from August to September, promises thrilling four-day red-ball matches across Tamil Nadu’s top venues, including Chennai and Coimbatore.
Fans can expect star players like Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan, alongside rising stars vying for national attention. With live streaming on the TNCA app and detailed scorecards on Cricbuzz, staying updated is easier than ever.
This guide dives into the tournament’s history, 2025 schedule, ticketing options, and nearby attractions, ensuring you’re fully prepared to enjoy the cricketing action. Whether you’re attending matches or following online, here’s how to immerse yourself in the Buchi Babu experience.
History and Significance of the Buchi Babu Tournament
The Buchi Babu Tournament, named after M. Buchi Babu Naidu, has a storied legacy dating back to 1909-1910. Initially a platform for local players to compete against English cricketers, it grew into a national stage for emerging talent. Legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Kris Srikkanth, and Sourav Ganguly have graced the tournament, with performances that caught the eye of national selectors.
The tournament’s four-day format mirrors the Ranji Trophy, serving as a critical preparatory ground for domestic players. Its revival in 2023 after a six-year hiatus reaffirmed its importance, with Madhya Pradesh clinching the title by defeating Delhi by 250 runs. The 2024 edition saw Hyderabad emerge victorious, led by standout performances from Rohith Rayudu and Tanay Thyagarajan.
Beyond competition, the tournament celebrates India’s cricketing heritage, fostering a sense of pride in Tamil Nadu’s contribution to the sport. It remains a must-watch for fans eager to spot the next big star.
Buchi Babu Tournament 2025: Schedule, Teams, and Venues
The Buchi Babu Tournament 2025 is set to captivate cricket fans with its competitive lineup and top-tier venues. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
Whether you’re a passionate cricket fan, a tourist planning to attend matches or a local seeking the best stadium experience, this article covers schedules, venues, player highlights, and practical tips for enjoying the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025.
From how to secure tickets to exploring nearby hotels and attractions in Tamil Nadu, we’ve got you covered with actionable insights and local recommendations.
Schedule and Dates
-
Start Date: August 10, 2025, with league matches kicking off across Tamil Nadu.
-
End Date: September 1, 2025, culminating in a grand final in Chennai.
-
Key Matches: The Mumbai vs TNCA XI clash, expected on August 15, 2025, is a highlight, drawing large crowds due to its intense rivalry.
Participating Teams
-
12 Teams: Divided into four groups of three, including state sides like Tamil Nadu, Mumbai, Karnataka, Hyderabad, and Jharkhand, plus TNCA President’s XI and TNCA XI.
-
Notable Players: Expect appearances from stars like Suryakumar Yadav (Mumbai), Ishan Kishan (Jharkhand), and R Sai Kishore (TNCA XI).
Venues
Matches will be hosted at four iconic Tamil Nadu venues:
-
Chennai: MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chepauk), known for its vibrant atmosphere.
-
Coimbatore: Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science Ground.
-
Tirunelveli: India Cements Ltd Cricket Ground, hosting the first semi-final.
-
Natham: NPR College Ground, hosting the second semi-final and final.
Live Streaming and Telecast
-
Streaming: Available on the TNCA app and TNCA YouTube channel.
-
No TV Telecast: Fans must rely on digital platforms for live coverage.
-
Live Scores: Real-time updates on Cricbuzz and TNCA’s official website (www.tnca.in).
The 2025 edition will feature intense group-stage battles, with the top team from each group advancing to the semi-finals, making it a thrilling precursor to the domestic season.
Buchi Babu Tournament 2025 Tickets and Booking
Attending the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025 is a bucket-list experience for cricket fans. Below is a detailed table outlining ticket availability and booking options.
|
Match Type |
Venue |
Date |
Ticket Availability |
How to Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
League Matches |
Chennai (MA Chidambaram) |
August 10–18, 2025 |
From July 1, 2025 |
TNCA website, Cricbuzz, or venue counters |
|
Quarterfinals |
Coimbatore Ground |
August 20–23, 2025 |
From August 5, 2025 |
Online or venue counters |
|
Semifinals |
Tirunelveli/Jharkhand |
August 25–28, 2025 |
From August 10, 2025 |
TNCA website or venue counters |
|
Final |
Chennai (MA Chidambaram) |
September 1, 2025 |
From August 20, 2025 |
Online via TNCA or Cricbuzz |
|
Mumbai vs TNCA XI |
Chennai (MA Chidambaram) |
August 15, 2025 |
From July 15, 2025 |
TNCA website, Cricbuzz, or venue counters |
-
Early Bird Discounts: Book before July 15, 2025, for up to 20% off select tickets.
-
Group Bookings: Special rates for groups of 10+; contact TNCA for details.
-
Venue Counters: Limited tickets available at stadiums on match days, subject to availability.
Pro Tip: Book online early to secure premium seating, especially for high-demand matches like Mumbai vs TNCA XI. Arrive 30 minutes before the match to avoid long queues at entry gates.
Live Scores, Match Updates, and Scorecards
For fans unable to attend in person, staying connected to the Buchi Babu Tournament is easy with real-time updates.
-
Live Scores:
-
Platforms like Cricbuzz and the TNCA website provide ball-by-ball updates.
-
The TNCA app offers live streaming for select matches.
-
-
Match Updates:
-
Follow key encounters like the 2025 Mumbai vs TNCA XI match for detailed commentary.
-
Check “Today’s Match” updates on Cricbuzz for real-time highlights.
-
-
Scorecards:
-
Post-match scorecards on Cricbuzz include player stats, bowling figures, and match summaries.
-
Visit www.tnca.in for official scorecards and recaps.
-
Tip: Download the TNCA app for push notifications on match starts and key moments, ensuring you never miss the action.
Past Winners and Notable Performances
The Buchi Babu Tournament has a rich history of unforgettable moments and stellar performances. Here’s a look at its legacy.
Recent Winners
-
2024: Hyderabad, defeating TNCA XI, with Rohith Rayudu’s 155 runs and Tanay Thyagarajan’s 8 wickets in the final.
-
2023: Madhya Pradesh, crushing Delhi by 250 runs, led by Sumit Kushwah’s all-round brilliance.
-
Historical Winners: Tamil Nadu, Mumbai, and Karnataka dominate the winners’ list, with Mumbai’s 2024 squad featuring stars like Sarfaraz Khan.
Notable Performances
-
Ishan Kishan (2024): Scored a blistering 114 off 107 balls for Jharkhand, securing a thrilling 2-wicket win over Madhya Pradesh.
-
Musheer Khan (2023): Smashed a century against Delhi, earning praise for his U-19 World Cup potential.
-
Sunil Gavaskar (1971): Drew 10,000 fans for his post-West Indies tour performance, cementing his legend status.
These performances highlight the tournament’s role as a breeding ground for India’s cricketing elite.
TNCA’s Role in Shaping the Tournament
The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) is the backbone of the Buchi Babu Tournament, ensuring its smooth execution and high standards. Here’s how TNCA contributes:
-
Player Selection: TNCA oversees trials for TNCA XI and TNCA President’s XI, with the 2024 under-19 selection process identifying talents like R Sai Kishore.
-
Organization: TNCA manages logistics across four venues, ensuring quality pitches and facilities. The 2025 budget is the largest yet, enhancing player and fan experiences.
-
Live Updates: TNCA’s website (www.tnca.in) and app provide live scores, schedules, and player lists, keeping fans engaged.
-
Talent Development: Through initiatives like the TNCA Under-19 selection, the association nurtures young players for national stardom.
TNCA’s efforts make the tournament a vital cog in India’s domestic cricket ecosystem.
SS Rajan Trophy: A Complementary Tournament
The SS Rajan Trophy, another TNCA-organized event, complements the Buchi Babu Tournament by promoting young talent. Scheduled for early 2025, it features matches in Chennai and other Tamil Nadu cities, with venues and player lists to be announced soon.
Both tournaments share a focus on grassroots development, offering players exposure to competitive cricket. While the Buchi Babu emphasizes four-day red-ball cricket, the SS Rajan Trophy often includes shorter formats, broadening opportunities for emerging stars.
Stadium Access and Entry Tips
Attending matches at venues like MA Chidambaram Stadium requires planning. Here are practical tips for a seamless experience:
-
Parking:
-
Availability: Limited parking at MA Chidambaram (500 spaces) and Coimbatore (300 spaces). Cost: ₹100–₹200 per day.
-
Tip: Arrive by 8:30 AM to secure a spot. Alternatively, use nearby public lots like Marina Beach parking (1 km from Chepauk, ₹50/day).
-
-
Entry Gates:
-
Best Gates: Use Gate 2 at MA Chidambaram for faster entry; avoid Gate 1 during peak hours.
-
Prohibited Items: No bottles, bags larger than A4 size, or outside food.
-
-
Local Hack: Visit Anna Salai’s street food stalls (1.5 km from Chepauk) for budget-friendly dosas and filter coffee post-match.
Nearby Facilities and Attractions
Enhance your Buchi Babu Tournament experience with these nearby amenities and attractions, tailored for fans visiting Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium.
Nearby Hotels
-
Taj Connemara (5-star): 2 km from stadium, offers luxury rooms, pool, and South Indian dining. Price: ₹8,000–₹12,000/night.
-
The Park Chennai (4-star): 1.5 km, features modern amenities and rooftop bar. Price: ₹5,000–₹8,000/night.
-
Hotel Savera (3-star): 1 km, budget-friendly with free Wi-Fi and breakfast. Price: ₹3,000–₹5,000/night.
Nearby Malls
-
Express Avenue Mall (2 km): Features 200+ stores, a food court with Amma’s Kitchen, and a multiplex. 10-minute drive from Chepauk.
-
Phoenix MarketCity (10 km): Offers high-end brands, PVR cinemas, and dining options like Copper Chimney. 20-minute drive.
Nearest Railway Station
-
Chennai Egmore (3 km): A major hub with frequent trains. Take a 10-minute taxi (₹100) or auto-rickshaw (₹50) to the stadium.
Nearest Metro/Bus Stop
-
Government Estate Metro (1.5 km): On the Blue Line, 5-minute taxi ride to Chepauk.
-
MTC Bus Stop (Triplicane, 0.5 km): Routes 21G and 27B connect to the stadium. Fare: ₹10–₹20.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
-
Marina Beach (1 km): India’s longest urban beach, perfect for a post-match stroll. Try local bhajjis from beachside vendors.
-
Kapaleeshwarar Temple (3 km): A 7th-century Dravidian temple with vibrant architecture, ideal for cultural exploration.
-
Fort St. George (4 km): A historic British fort with a museum, great for history buffs. 10-minute drive from the stadium.
Local Tip: Grab a quick meal at Triplicane’s Ratna Café (1 km from Chepauk) for authentic South Indian sambar idli before matches.
FAQs
1. Where can I buy tickets for the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025?
Tickets are available online via the TNCA website (www.tnca.in) or Cricbuzz, starting July 1, 2025, for league matches. Limited tickets can be purchased at venue counters on match days, subject to availability. Early booking is recommended for high-demand games like Mumbai vs TNCA XI.
2. Is parking available at MA Chidambaram Stadium?
Yes, parking is available for 500 vehicles at ₹100–₹200 per day. Arrive early (by 8:30 AM) to secure a spot, or use nearby public lots like Marina Beach parking (1 km away, ₹50/day). Public transport is a convenient alternative.
3. What are the best seating zones for viewing matches?
At MA Chidambaram Stadium, the C, D, and E stands offer the best views, especially for close-up action near the pitch. Upper-tier stands provide a panoramic view but are farther from the field. Book early for these zones via the TNCA website.
4. Are there hotels near the Buchi Babu Tournament venues?
Yes, hotels like Taj Connemara (2 km, luxury), The Park Chennai (1.5 km, mid-range), and Hotel Savera (1 km, budget) are close to MA Chidambaram Stadium. Book early during the tournament to secure availability.
5. How can I access MA Chidambaram Stadium via public transport?
Take the Chennai Metro to Government Estate station (1.5 km away) or MTC buses to Triplicane stop (0.5 km). Taxis or auto-rickshaws from Chennai Egmore railway station (3 km) are also convenient, costing ₹50–₹100.
Conclusion
The Buchi Babu Tournament is a celebration of India’s cricketing heritage, blending fierce competition with the discovery of future stars. From its historic roots to the exciting 2025 edition at venues like MA Chidambaram Stadium, this tournament offers fans an unforgettable experience. Explore the schedule, book your tickets, and visit nearby attractions like Marina Beach to make your trip memorable.