Virat Kohli is set to play his first Ranji Trophy match since 2012, making himself available for Delhi’s final league game against Railways on January 30. Although Kohli couldn’t join Delhi for their away match against Saurashtra due to a neck sprain, he has confirmed his availability for the crucial fixture against Railways. Delhi head coach Sarandeep Singh confirmed that Kohli communicated his readiness to the DDCA president and team management.
This decision comes after the BCCI made it mandatory for contracted players to participate in domestic cricket unless sidelined by injury. Kohli’s last appearance in the Ranji Trophy was in November 2012 when Delhi faced Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad.
The directive from the BCCI has resulted in a star-studded finale for the Ranji Trophy this season. Kohli’s teammate, Rishabh Pant, will also make his first appearance in the competition in six years, possibly joining Kohli in the match against Railways. Additionally, India captain Rohit Sharma has confirmed his availability for Mumbai’s upcoming match against Jammu and Kashmir.
Other prominent Indian players, including Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ravindra Jadeja, will also feature in the next round for their respective teams. This surge of high-profile players comes after India’s disappointing losses in their recent Test series against New Zealand and Australia. The Indian team, particularly Kohli and Rohit, are eager to regain form ahead of the upcoming Champions Trophy and a Test series against England in June.
