The Ranji Trophy, named after the legendary cricketer Ranjitsinhji, is the premier first-class cricket championship in India. Established in 1934, it is contested by state and regional teams, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent and push for national selection. The tournament has been instrumental in nurturing some of the finest cricketers who have gone on to represent India on the international stage.
Foreign stars in the Ranji Trophy
While the Ranji Trophy is predominantly an Indian affair, it has also seen participation from several foreign cricketers over the years. These international players have added a unique flavor to the competition, bringing diverse skills and experiences to the Indian domestic circuit. Their involvement highlights the global appeal and competitiveness of the Ranji Trophy.
Foreign stars in the Indian domestic competition
While the Ranji Trophy is predominantly an Indian affair, it has also seen participation from several foreign cricketers over the years. These international players have added a unique flavor to the competition, bringing diverse skills and experiences to the Indian domestic circuit. Their involvement highlights the global appeal and competitiveness of the Ranji Trophy.
9 Overseas cricketers who played in the Ranji Trophy
Nayan Doshi (England)
Son of former Indian cricketer Dilip Doshi, Nayan made his first-class debut for Saurashtra in the 2001/02 season. He predominantly played white-ball cricket for Surrey in England.
Tanmay Mishra (Kenya)
Tanmay moved to Kenya at a young age and represented the country in international cricket, including a World Cup. He played for Tripura in the Ranji Trophy during the 2019/20 season.
Conrad Powell Johnstone (England)
Conrad Powell played for Madras in the Ranji Trophy during the First World War and later captained the team. He also played for Kent in the English county circuit.
George Abell (England)
George Abell, known for scoring the first double century in the Ranji Trophy, played for Essex before joining the Indian Civil Services in 1928. He played most of his first-class cricket in North India.
Kabir Ali (England)
Kabir Ali, cousin of Moeen Ali, played for Rajasthan in the Ranji Trophy. He appeared in 15 international games for England, including one Test match, and played for various English county clubs like Hampshire, Lancashire, and Worcestershire.
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Enamul Haque Jr (Bangladesh)
Enamul Haque Jr, the left-arm spinner from Bangladesh, represented Maharashtra in the 2008/09 Ranji Trophy season. He holds the record for being the youngest bowler to take 10 wickets in a match.
Roy Gilchrist (West Indies)
Roy Gilchrist, a Jamaican cricketer, played for Hyderabad in the Ranji Trophy during the 1962/63 season. He also played 13 Tests for the West Indies.
Dennis Compton (England)
Dennis Compton, a legendary English cricketer, played over 500 games for Middlesex and represented Holkar in the Ranji Trophy under CK Nayudu’s captaincy. He scored over 38,000 runs in his career and appeared in 78 Tests for England.
Vikram Solanki (England)
Vikram Solanki, another prominent English cricketer, represented Rajasthan in the 2006/07 Ranji Trophy season. He played 54 international games for England and amassed over 18,000 runs in first-class cricket.
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