Virat Kohli Set to Return to Ranji Trophy Ahead of Champions Trophy 2025, Likely to Play for Delhi Against Railways

Virat Kohli, India’s cricket maestro, is gearing up for a return to domestic cricket after more than a decade-long hiatus.

Reports suggest that Kohli will play in Delhi’s upcoming Ranji Trophy match against Railways, set to begin on January 30, 2025.

A source from the Delhi & Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) informed Sports Tak that while Kohli’s participation isn’t officially confirmed, he has expressed his availability for the match.

This marks a pivotal moment in Kohli’s cricketing journey, as he hasn’t played in India’s premier domestic tournament since 2012.

Kohli’s Confirmed Availability for January 30 Match

Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy is confirmed for the final round of the group-phase matches. According to Delhi head coach Sarandeep Singh, Kohli will participate in the January 30 to February 2 match against Railways.

Despite his previous absence due to a neck injury, Kohli has confirmed his participation. His decision comes in line with the BCCI’s new policy, which requires centrally contracted players to feature in domestic cricket.

However, Kohli missed the penultimate round, starting January 23 against Saurashtra, after informing BCCI medical staff about his ongoing recovery from a neck sprain.

BCCI’s New Policy for Centrally Contracted Players

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently rolled out a new 10-point policy that requires all centrally contracted players to play in domestic cricket when not on international duty.

This decision followed India’s disappointing performances in recent Test series, including a 3-1 loss in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a clean sweep by New Zealand.

In an effort to maintain player fitness and connect with domestic cricket, the BCCI now mandates that players, like Kohli, participate in domestic tournaments such as the Ranji Trophy, unless they receive prior permission from the selection panel head.

Kohli’s Last Ranji Trophy Appearance

Kohli’s last Ranji Trophy appearance dates back to 2012, when he played for Delhi against Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad.

The match featured prominent players like Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag, and Ishant Sharma for Delhi, while Uttar Pradesh boasted players like Mohammad Kaif and Suresh Raina.

Kohli contributed 14 runs in Delhi’s first innings and 43 runs in their second innings. Despite a strong performance from players like Sehwag, Delhi lost the match as Uttar Pradesh secured a six-wicket victory.

Kohli’s return to Ranji after 12 years will be an exciting moment for both him and his fans.

Impact of Kohli’s Participation on Delhi’s Squad

Kohli’s availability for the final round of Delhi’s group-phase matches provides a major boost to the team. The Delhi squad, which includes Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill, will benefit from Kohli’s vast experience in first-class cricket.

While Kohli missed the January 23 match against Saurashtra, other key players such as Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shubman Gill have made themselves available for their respective teams in the penultimate round.

Kohli’s return could inspire his teammates and help Delhi in securing crucial points for the next phase of the tournament.

BCCI’s Focus on Domestic Participation After Test Defeats

India’s recent losses to New Zealand and Australia in Test cricket played a key role in the BCCI’s decision to enforce this new policy.

Following India’s 1-3 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the BCCI, in consultation with the team leadership, including Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Gautam Gambhir, decided to mandate that players participate in domestic cricket to maintain sharpness.

This includes players like Kohli, who have been away from domestic competitions for years. The BCCI believes that by doing so, players will stay in peak form and be more prepared for international challenges.

Kohli’s Role in India’s Upcoming International Fixtures

In addition to his domestic commitment, Kohli is part of India’s squads for the upcoming ODI series against England, starting February 6, and the Champions Trophy 2025, where India plays their first match on February 20.

Kohli’s involvement in both domestic and international cricket highlights his commitment to the sport, despite the challenges of a tight schedule.

His participation in the Ranji Trophy will be essential for his fitness and form ahead of these critical international fixtures.