The 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season commenced with 32 teams competing, but several key players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, and Wriddhiman Saha struggled on the opening day, jeopardizing their chances of selection for the Indian Test team. Pujara scored only 16 runs, while Saha was dismissed for a golden duck. Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan are also looking to redeem their careers, with Iyer aiming to replicate his previous success and Kishan returning to captain Jharkhand after a controversial absence last season. The tournament will lack top players due to overlapping international commitments, providing a platform for emerging talents to impress selectors. With the evolving philosophy of the Indian Test team focusing on adaptability, the Ranji Trophy is critical for players to showcase their skills under pressure. Mumbai is expected to be a strong contender with seasoned players like Ajinkya Rahane and Prithvi Shaw in their ranks.