The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in an innovative move has abolished the coin toss for CK Nayudu Trophy matches. Over the years, there has been a debate whether the hosting team has an advantage if they win the toss in their backyard. Even at the international stage, many have complained about it including former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis.
So what will happen in the absence of coin toss? The visiting team will have the privilege to elect whether they want to bowl or bat first.
“In an innovative move, the toss will be abolished for CK Nayudu Trophy matches. Instead, the visiting team will be vested with the privilege to elect whether to bat or bowl first,” the BCCI said in a statement.
For example, in Group A clash if Karnataka hosts Tamil Nadu, the captain of the latter side will decide whether he wants to bat or bowl first.
Gujarat are the defending champions of the tournament. It will be interesting to see if abolishing coin toss helps visiting teams dominate the hosts.
CK Nayudu Trophy will begin on October 13. The plate group will end on November 26, 2025 whereas the elite group will end on March 1, 2025.
Change in points system too
A few other changes have been made in CK Nayudu Trophy as well. The points system has been revamped. The revamp has been done to bring balance depending on the performances. Points will be awarded for batting and bowling prowess in the first innings. In addition, teams will earn points for securing the first innings lead or for achieving an outright victory.
The experiment is being done to see if it can be implemented in Ranji Trophy as well.
“A thorough review will be conducted post-season to evaluate the efficacy of the new points system, with a potential implementation in the Ranji Trophy for subsequent seasons,” the BCCI explained in the media release.
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