The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is India’s premier domestic T20 cricket tournament, serving as a vital platform for emerging talent since its introduction in the 2006–07 season. Named after former Indian cricketer Syed Mushtaq Ali, the competition has played a crucial role in shaping the country’s short-format cricket structure.
Over nearly two decades, the tournament has witnessed intense competition among state and zonal teams. Many players who excelled here later progressed to the Indian Premier League and international cricket, highlighting the tournament’s importance in the domestic circuit.
As of the 2025–26 season, eighteen editions have been completed. While several teams have tasted success over the years, the most recent season marked a historic moment with Jharkhand lifting the trophy for the first time.
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Winners List
| Season | Champion | Runner-Up |
|---|---|---|
| 2006–07 | Tamil Nadu | Punjab |
| 2009–10 | Maharashtra | Hyderabad |
| 2010–11 | Bengal | Madhya Pradesh |
| 2011–12 | Baroda | Punjab |
| 2012–13 | Gujarat | Punjab |
| 2013–14 | Baroda | Uttar Pradesh |
| 2014–15 | Gujarat | Punjab |
| 2015–16 | Uttar Pradesh | Baroda |
| 2016–17 | East Zone | Central Zone |
| 2017–18 | Delhi | Rajasthan |
| 2018–19 | Karnataka | Maharashtra |
| 2019–20 | Karnataka | Tamil Nadu |
| 2020–21 | Tamil Nadu | Baroda |
| 2021–22 | Tamil Nadu | Karnataka |
| 2022–23 | Mumbai | Himachal Pradesh |
| 2023–24 | Punjab | Baroda |
| 2024–25 | Mumbai | Madhya Pradesh |
| 2025–26 | Jharkhand | Haryana |
Most Successful Teams in the Tournament
Across editions, several teams have consistently performed at a high level. Their success reflects strong domestic systems, depth in squad strength, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Tamil Nadu (3 Titles)
Tamil Nadu stands as the most successful side in the history of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Their first triumph came in the inaugural edition, followed by consecutive title wins in the early 2020s. The team has been known for its balanced combinations and calm approach in knockout matches.
Mumbai (2 Titles)
Mumbai emerged as champions twice within a short span, showcasing their strong domestic foundation. Their success has been built on disciplined team performances and the ability to handle high-pressure situations effectively.
Karnataka (2 Titles)
Karnataka enjoyed a dominant phase with back-to-back titles, driven by consistency and a well-settled core of players. Their campaigns were marked by strong all-round contributions.
Gujarat (2 Titles)
Gujarat claimed two championships through composed performances and reliable middle-order batting. Their victories underlined their growing stature in India’s domestic T20 landscape.
Baroda (2 Titles)
Baroda were among the early success stories of the tournament. Their title wins came from well-rounded team efforts and impactful performances in decisive matches.
Jharkhand (1 Title)
The 2025–26 season marked a milestone for Jharkhand as they secured their maiden title. Their dominant final performance highlighted the state’s rising influence in domestic T20 cricket.
Other Champions (Single Title)
Several teams have lifted the trophy once, underlining the competitive nature of the tournament. These include Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bengal, Maharashtra, Punjab, and East Zone, each contributing to the rich history of the competition.
Conclusion
The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy continues to be one of the most important tournaments in Indian domestic cricket. Its evolving format and competitive balance have ensured opportunities for both established and emerging teams.
With each season bringing new champions and standout performances, the tournament remains a vital stepping stone for players aspiring to make a mark at higher levels.
