Virat Kohli returns to Ranji Trophy after 12 years for Delhi vs Railways clash. Match at Arun Jaitley Stadium, marking his domestic cricket comeback.
The upcoming Ranji Trophy match between Delhi and Railways is generating significant buzz, primarily due to the return of Virat Kohli to domestic cricket after a hiatus of over a decade. This match, scheduled to take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi from January 30 to February 2, marks Kohli’s comeback to the Ranji Trophy, a tournament he last played in November 2012.
Kohli’s return is not just a personal milestone but also aligns with the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) directive mandating senior team players to participate in domestic tournaments for national team selection. While other prominent players like Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have also returned to the domestic circuit, Kohli’s return to his home ground makes this match particularly special.
Kohli’s Training and Preparations
Prior to joining the Delhi team, Kohli underwent training in Mumbai with former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, focusing on playing short-pitched deliveries. Upon his arrival in Delhi, he joined the team’s training session, led by Ayush Badoni. The training sessions included light physical exercises, football drills, and batting practice in the nets. At the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Kohli also enjoyed his favorite Kadhi Chawal for lunch on his first day of practice.
During the net sessions, Kohli was observed using a thinner bat, a possible adjustment to address issues with outside edges that had led to his dismissals in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He faced throwdowns, spin bowlers, and fast bowlers, displaying a mix of defensive and aggressive strokes. He also received advice from head coach Sarandeep Singh on his batting guard. His dedication and focus during practice underscored his commitment to his return to domestic cricket.
Nostalgia and Memories at Kotla
Kohli’s return to the Arun Jaitley Stadium, formerly known as the Feroz Shah Kotla, brought back memories of his early cricketing days. His interactions with former coaches and teammates like Mahesh Bhati highlighted the nostalgic atmosphere. During his training sessions, Kohli reminisced about playing on matting and uneven surfaces, expressing his fondness for those early cricketing experiences. These interactions revealed a side of Kohli that reflects his deep connection with the ground and his roots.
The Match and Spectator Interest
The match between Delhi and Railways has generated immense public interest. The excitement surrounding Kohli’s return has led to increased security measures at the stadium and the opening of two additional stands for free spectator entry. The BCCI has also ensured that the match will be livestreamed, allowing fans across the country to witness Kohli’s comeback. The match will be broadcasted live on JioCinema.
Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Career
Virat Kohli made his Ranji Trophy debut in November 2006 against Tamil Nadu. His overall record in the Ranji Trophy includes 23 matches, 1547 runs, and 5 centuries. Notably, he has only participated in one domestic first-class match since his Test debut in June 2011, underscoring the significance of his current return.
Some highlights from his Ranji Trophy career include:
- First match: November 2006 against Tamil Nadu, scoring 10 runs.
- Gutsy knock after father’s death: A 90 against Karnataka in 2006, resuming his innings hours after his father passed away.
- First century: 106 against Rajasthan in 2007.
- Last match before current return: November 2012 against Uttar Pradesh scoring 14 and 43.
Milestones and Memorable Matches
Kohli’s first Ranji Trophy match was played alongside other notable cricketers such as Gautam Gambhir, Shikhar Dhawan, and Ishant Sharma, marking a significant moment in his career. He has also been part of significant matches, like the one against Mumbai in 2008, which included current Test captain Rohit Sharma and national team chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
The 2012-13 match against Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad marked Kohli’s last appearance in the Ranji Trophy before his current return. Kohli scored 14 and 43 in the match against Uttar Pradesh. Overall, his return to the Ranji Trophy is more than just a game; it is a full-circle moment, marking his journey back to where it all began.
Fan Engagement
The enthusiasm for Kohli’s return is evident in the crowds that have gathered to watch his training sessions and the increased security measures being implemented. Even young fans are closely observing his batting techniques, further emphasizing his widespread influence and role model status. A notable interaction was his meeting with former Delhi player Shawej Khan and his son Kabir, where he offered advice and autographed a bat.
Sources: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/virat-kohli-declines-help-with-his-cricket-gear-delhi-vs-railways-ranji-trophy/articleshow/117676941.cms
https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/story/cricket-virat-kohli-ranji-trophy-return-previous-records-major-milestones-stats-2671849-2025-01-29
https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/ranji-trophy-virat-kohli-s-day-at-delhi-nets-slimmer-bat-back-foot-batting-plenty-of-fans-1470774