With the rise of Shivaji, the Deccan entered a new phase of history. Shivaji wielded the Marathas into a powerful nation. They became rulers instead of subjects. The Peshwas, who succeeded Shivaji, built a Maratha empire extending from Gwalior in the north to Thanjavur in the South.

The Maratha Conference consists of :

• Mahatma Phule Agricultural University (AHMEDNAGAR)
• Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University (AURANGABAD)
• Indian Institute of Technology (MUMBAI)
• University of Mumbai (MUMBAI)
• University of Pune (PUNE)

Located in the West Zone, the conference includes 5 universities spread over the Mumbai, Pune and Marathwada regions of Maharashtra. The cities of Rahuri, Aurangabad, Mumbai and Pune are involved in the competition.

In the Maratha Conference, astro-turf fields are located at Mumbai and Pune (Pimpri). Doordarshan studios are located at Mumbai and Pune.

Watch out for intra-state rivals Mumbai University vs. Pune University. Both Mumbai University and Pune University have the potential to achieve National Rankings.

The average distance travelled by the teams in this conference will be 111 km. In the distance grid below, * indicates that the match will be played at a neutral site.