The CK Nayudu Trophy is a premier domestic cricket tournament in India for U-23 players. Named after Colonel Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu, India’s first Test captain, it has nurtured talents like Sameer Rizvi and Yashvardhan Dalal since 1978. This competition is a vital stepping stone for young cricketers aiming for the Ranji Trophy and international fame.
This article covers the tournament’s rich history, four-day match format, and its role in shaping India’s cricket future. You’ll find details on the 2024-25 season, including schedules, teams, and standout performances. It also offers practical tips for attending matches and exploring nearby attractions like Green Park Stadium in Kanpur.
Whether you’re a cricket fan or an aspiring player, the CK Nayudu Trophy is a celebration of young talent. Learn about key venues, selection processes, and local insights to enhance your experience. Dive in to discover why this tournament is a cornerstone of Indian cricket!
Key Highlights:
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History: Launched in 1978 by BCCI to honor C.K. Nayudu, India’s first Test captain.
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Format: Four-day matches for U-23 players, divided into elite and plate groups.
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2024-25 Season: Runs from October 2024 to March 2025, with teams like Mumbai and Karnataka competing.
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Notable Players: Yashvardhan Dalal (428 runs) and Sameer Rizvi (312 runs) set records in recent seasons.
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Fan Guide: Free entry at most venues, live updates on Cricbuzz, and tips for visiting Green Park Stadium.
CK Nayudu Trophy: Your Ultimate Guide to India’s Premier U-23 Cricket Tournament
The CK Nayudu Trophy is a cornerstone of Indian domestic cricket, dedicated to nurturing young talent under the age of 23. Named after Colonel Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu, India’s first Test captain, this prestigious tournament has been a launchpad for stars like Sameer Rizvi and Yashvardhan Dalal, offering a competitive platform for aspiring cricketers to shine.
This comprehensive guide dives into the tournament’s history, format, 2024-25 season details, and practical tips for fans eager to experience the action at key venues. Whether you’re a cricket enthusiast, an aspiring player, or planning to attend matches, you’ll find everything you need to know about the CK Nayudu Trophy.
In this article, you’ll discover the tournament’s legacy, how it shapes future cricket stars, and where to catch live updates or attend matches. We’ll also cover practical details like stadium access, nearby facilities, and local attractions to enhance your experience. From match schedules to selection tips, this guide is your go-to resource for all things CK Nayudu Trophy.
Ready to explore the heart of India’s cricketing future? Read on to uncover the significance of this tournament, plan your visit to iconic venues, and learn how young players make their mark on the national stage.
Key Highlights:
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Tournament History: Established in 1978 to honor C.K. Nayudu’s legacy.
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Format and Structure: Four-day matches for U-23 players, divided into elite and plate groups.
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2024-25 Season: Features top teams like Mumbai, Haryana, and Karnataka, with live updates on Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo.
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Notable Performances: Record-breaking feats by players like Yashvardhan Dalal (428 runs) and Sameer Rizvi (312 runs).
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Fan Guide: Tips for attending matches, accessing venues, and exploring nearby attractions.
History and Importance of the CK Nayudu Trophy
The CK Nayudu Trophy, launched in 1978 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), honors Colonel Cottari Kanakaiya Nayudu, India’s first Test captain in 1932. Known for his powerful batting and leadership, Nayudu’s legacy lives on through this tournament, which has become a vital platform for young cricketers.
It bridges the gap between age-group cricket and senior tournaments like the Ranji Trophy, offering U-23 and U-25 players a chance to develop skills and gain exposure. Stars like Sameer Rizvi, who scored a triple century in 2024, and Yashvardhan Dalal, with a record 428-run knock, have used this stage to propel their careers.
This tournament is more than a competition; it’s a proving ground for India’s cricketing future. By focusing on endurance and skill in a four-day format, it prepares players for the rigors of professional cricket. Fans and scouts alike follow the tournament closely, with live updates on platforms like Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo.
Format and Structure of the CK Nayudu Trophy
The CK Nayudu Trophy is designed to mimic the intensity of senior first-class cricket, featuring four-day matches that test players’ endurance and technique. Teams are divided into elite and plate groups to ensure competitive balance, with 38 state and regional teams vying for the title.
The points system rewards outright wins, first-innings leads, and draws, fostering strategic play. Karnataka, the 2024 champions, showcased the tournament’s high standards by defeating Uttar Pradesh in the final.
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Eligibility: Open to U-23 and U-25 players, depending on the season.
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Format: Four-day matches, similar to Ranji Trophy.
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Groups: Elite and plate groups for balanced competition.
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Incentives: Prize money motivates players to perform.
This structure ensures young cricketers gain experience in multi-day cricket, preparing them for elite domestic and international challenges.
CK Nayudu Trophy 2024-25: Schedule, Teams, and Points Table
The 2024-25 CK Nayudu Trophy season, running from October 13, 2024, to March 1, 2025, features intense competition across India.
Fans can expect thrilling performances from teams like Mumbai, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka. Live scores and updates are available on Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, and the BCCI website.
2024-25 Season Overview:
|
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
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Start Date |
October 13, 2024 (Confirmed) |
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End Date |
March 1, 2025 (Final) |
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Eligibility |
U-23 players |
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Format |
Four-day matches |
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Key Venues |
Gurugram Cricket Ground, Kanpur Green Park, Rajkot, and others |
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Live Updates |
Cricbuzz, ESPNcricinfo, BCCI website |
Notable Teams:
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Mumbai
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Haryana
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Uttar Pradesh
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Saurashtra
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Karnataka
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Jharkhand
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Odisha
The points table, updated regularly on UcCricket.live, tracks team standings, with quarter-finals starting February 18, 2025.
Attending CK Nayudu Trophy Matches: Venues and Access Tips
CK Nayudu Trophy matches are typically held at state cricket grounds, such as Gurugram Cricket Ground (Haryana), Green Park (Kanpur), and Rajkot Cricket Ground (Saurashtra). Entry is often free, as the tournament prioritizes player development over large-scale spectatorship. However, arriving early ensures a good seat, especially at popular venues like Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium practice grounds.
Tips for Attending:
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Check Schedules: Visit the BCCI website for match dates and venues.
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Arrive Early: Gates open 1–2 hours before play; early arrival secures better viewing spots.
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Parking: Limited parking is available at most venues; expect costs of ₹50–₹100 per day.
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Local Hack: Use lesser-known entry gates (e.g., Gate 2 at Green Park) to avoid crowds.
For fans unable to attend, live streaming and ball-by-ball updates are available on Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo.
Notable Players and Records in the CK Nayudu Trophy
The CK Nayudu Trophy has been a breeding ground for talent, with standout performances etched in its history. In 2024, Haryana’s Yashvardhan Dalal set a record with a 428-run knock against Mumbai, surpassing Sameer Rizvi’s 312-run record from 2023.
Key Records:
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Highest Individual Score: Yashvardhan Dalal, 428 runs (2024, Haryana vs. Mumbai).
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Highest Team Score: Mumbai, 678/6 (2023).
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Best Bowling Figures: Sameer Sharma, 7/45 (2021, Haryana).
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Longest Partnership: 220 runs, Saurashtra (2022).
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Recent Milestone: Shoun Roger’s unbeaten 113 for Kerala vs. Uttarakhand (2024).
These records highlight the tournament’s role in showcasing emerging talent, with players often advancing to the Ranji Trophy and beyond.
CK Nayudu Trophy vs. Ranji Trophy: Key Differences
While both tournaments are pillars of Indian domestic cricket, they serve distinct purposes.
|
Aspect |
CK Nayudu Trophy |
Ranji Trophy |
|---|---|---|
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Age Limit |
U-23/U-25 |
No age limit |
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Format |
Four-day matches |
Four/five-day matches |
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Purpose |
Develop young players |
Elite senior competition |
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Level |
Junior/Intermediate |
Professional |
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Teams |
38 state/regional teams |
38 state/regional teams |
The CK Nayudu Trophy focuses on grooming young talent, while the Ranji Trophy is India’s premier first-class competition.
How to Get Selected for the CK Nayudu Trophy
Aspiring cricketers dream of playing in the CK Nayudu Trophy, a gateway to professional cricket. Selection requires dedication and standout performances at the state level.
Steps to Selection:
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Join a State Team: Excel in U-19 or U-23 state tournaments.
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Perform Consistently: Score runs or take wickets in domestic leagues.
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Attend Trials: Participate in BCCI or state association trials.
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Focus on Fitness: Maintain peak physical condition for endurance.
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Seek Coaching: Work with mentors to refine batting, bowling, or fielding skills.
Contact your local cricket association or visit the BCCI website for trial updates.
Nearby Facilities and Attractions: Green Park Stadium, Kanpur
Green Park Stadium in Kanpur, a key CK Nayudu Trophy venue, is a historic ground hosting memorable matches, including Uttar Pradesh’s 746-run total in 2024. Here’s how to enhance your visit:
Nearby Hotels
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The Landmark Towers: 4-star, 1.2 km from Green Park, offers free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and a gym. Approx. ₹4,000/night.
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Hotel Royal Cliff: 3-star, 2 km away, features a pool and on-site dining. Approx. ₹2,500/night.
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Kanha Continental: 3-star, 1.5 km, known for spacious rooms and budget-friendly rates. Approx. ₹2,000/night.
Nearby Malls
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Z Square Mall: 2.5 km from Green Park, offers shops like Westside, a food court, and a multiplex. Drive or take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw.
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Rave Moti Mall: 3 km away, features dining options like Barbeque Nation and retail stores. Reachable in 12 minutes by taxi.
Nearest Railway Station
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Kanpur Central: 4 km from Green Park, a major hub with frequent trains. Take a taxi (₹150–₹200) or auto-rickshaw (10–15 minutes).
Nearest Metro/Bus Stop
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Naveen Market Bus Stop: 1.8 km away, served by local buses. A 7-minute auto-rickshaw ride gets you to the stadium.
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Note: Kanpur Metro is operational but has no direct stop near Green Park; use buses or taxis for convenience.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
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Kanpur Memorial Church: 3 km away, a historic site from the 1857 uprising, ideal for history buffs.
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Jajmau Archaeological Site: 8 km from the stadium, features ancient ruins and a scenic riverside view.
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Allen Forest Zoo: 6 km away, a family-friendly spot with diverse wildlife and lush greenery.
Local Tips:
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Eateries: Try Pandit’s Chaat at Swaroop Nagar (2 km) for local street food like pani puri.
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Transport: Book e-rickshaws via apps like Ola for budget-friendly travel.
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Best Gate: Use Gate 3 at Green Park for quicker entry during matches.
FAQs
1. Where can I buy tickets for CK Nayudu Trophy matches?
Most CK Nayudu Trophy matches are free to attend at state cricket grounds. Check the BCCI website or local association for specific venue details. For high-profile games, limited tickets may be available via platforms like BookMyShow.
2. Is parking available at CK Nayudu Trophy venues?
Yes, most venues like Green Park (Kanpur) and Gurugram Cricket Ground offer parking for ₹50–₹100 per day. Arrive 1–2 hours early to secure a spot, as spaces are limited.
3. Which are the best seating zones for CK Nayudu Trophy matches?
At grounds like Green Park, pavilion stands offer the best views due to their elevated position. Smaller venues may have open seating; arrive early for spots near the boundary line.
4. How can I access Green Park Stadium via public transport?
Take a bus to Naveen Market (1.8 km away) or a taxi from Kanpur Central railway station (4 km). Auto-rickshaws are a quick, affordable option, costing ₹50–₹100.
5. What are some nearby attractions to visit after a CK Nayudu Trophy match?
In Kanpur, explore Kanpur Memorial Church (3 km), Jajmau (8 km), or Allen Forest Zoo (6 km). For dining, Swaroop Nagar’s street food stalls are a must-visit.
Conclusion
The CK Nayudu Trophy is a vital platform for India’s young cricketers, blending rich history with competitive spirit. From its inception in 1978 to record-breaking performances in 2024-25, it continues to shape the future of Indian cricket. Plan your visit to venues like Green Park Stadium, follow live updates on Cricbuzz, or share this guide with fellow cricket fans to spread the excitement!