The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a domestic Twenty20 cricket championship in India, organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), among the teams from the Ranji Trophy. It is named after former Test cricketer Syed Mushtaq Ali. In 2006–07, the inaugural competition was won by Tamil Nadu under the captaincy of Dinesh Karthik. The 2023–24 tournament was won by Punjab, who defeated Baroda in the final. Tamil Nadu have been the most successful team, winning the trophy three times.

History

The tournament is played under Twenty20 (T20) rules. Originally known as the Inter-State T20 Championship, it was inaugurated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the 2006–07 season. Except in 2016–17, the tournament has been contested by teams involved in the Ranji Trophy, 27 at first and currently (2023) 38. The format has generally been to begin with a round-robin stage with the teams divided into zonal groups, the top teams in each group qualifying for a knockout stage culminating in the final tie. In 2012–13, the BCCI decided to replace the knockout with a Super League consisting of two groups, the winners of which qualified for the final. In June 2016, the BCCI relaunched the competition using zonal teams, as in the Duleep Trophy, but they reverted to the Ranji teams in 2017. Since then, the competing teams have increased to 38 and the knockout stage restored.

The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a prestigious domestic cricket tournament held in India. Named after the legendary Indian cricketer Syed Mushtaq Ali, this tournament is organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and is considered one of the most important events in the Indian domestic cricket calendar.

The tournament features teams representing different states and regions of India, competing against each other in a T20 format. It serves as a platform for talented cricketers to showcase their skills and make a mark in the national cricket scene. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy provides a great opportunity for young and aspiring cricketers to catch the attention of selectors and earn a place in the Indian national team.

The tournament is known for its high-intensity matches, where players display their power-hitting, bowling variations, and exceptional fielding skills. It attracts a large number of cricket enthusiasts and fans who eagerly follow the matches and support their favorite teams.

The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has witnessed some thrilling encounters and remarkable performances over the years. It has become a breeding ground for future stars of Indian cricket, with many players who have excelled in this tournament going on to represent the national team.

The tournament is not only a platform for players but also an opportunity for different states and regions to showcase their cricketing talent and compete for the coveted trophy. The matches are played in various stadiums across the country, adding to the excitement and fervor of the tournament.

Overall, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a highly anticipated and fiercely contested cricket tournament in India. It not only provides a platform for domestic cricketers to shine but also serves as a stepping stone towards representing the Indian national team.