
In a big development for Indian cricket, the star batsman, Virat Kohli, is returning to the Ranji Trophy after 13 years. Kohli, who had been a regular feature in international cricket since his debut, is set to play for Delhi against Railways on January 30. This marks his first appearance for domestic cricket after a long hiatus, having last featured in Ranji Trophy back in November 2012.
The timing of this decision becomes pivotal following the disquiet of the Indian team in their recent Australia series, leading to the BCCI enforcing new domestic playing requirements for contracted players.
Kohli Available for Delhi’s Last League Match
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Virat Kohli will be available to play for Delhi’s final league match of the Ranji Trophy against Railways, which begins on January 30, 2025. He did not take part in the team’s next match against Saurashtra which enters its first day on January 23, due to a neck strain. Kohli informed the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) that he was available for the Railways game, Delhi’s head coach Sarandeep Singh divulged.
Mandatory Participation of Players in Domestic Cricket on the Orders from BCCI

The directive from BCCI, which makes it compulsory for contracted cricketers to participate in domestic cricket if they are fully fit, has finally encouraged players to play in the significant Ranji Trophy.
The decision has followed a dismal performance of the Indian team in the recent series in Australia, and the Board has also requested senior players like Kohli, Rohit Sharma, etc. to play in the domestic circuit and get fit for the ongoing seasonal journey and the upcoming international tournaments. This is a strategic step taken by the BCCI to help players maintain match fitness and game sharpness.
Virat Kohli’s Last Ranji Trophy Appearance

It had been in November 2012, when he last played for the Ranji trophy, when the Delhi team faced Uttar Pradesh in Ghaziabad. Since then, Kohli has progressed in many senses: from a young hopeful to one of India’s best batsmen across all formats. His efforts will be awaited anxiously since many think it could help him regain his form, especially with the upcoming international outings.
Other Senior Players Joining the Ranji Trophy

Kohli would not be the only one returning to domestic cricket. Several senior players will also be in action as the Ranji Trophy progresses toward its climax. Rishabh Pant, India’s wicketkeeper-batsman, will be playing his first Ranji match in six years for Delhi against Railways. It would provide Pant with a great opportunity to hone his skills ahead of some important international assignments.
Rohit Sharma has also confirmed he will be available for Mumbai’s home match against Jammu and Kashmir, where Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ravindra Jadeja will also play for their respective teams in these rounds. The arrival of star players at the Ranji for the final stages adds great value to the tournament and creates excitement for the cricket-loving public at its conclusion.
A Strategic Move Ahead of the Champions Trophy

The timing of the players’ appearances in the Ranji Trophy coincides nicely with the much-anticipated Champions Trophy to be held in June 2025. Players playing domestic cricket will give an added advantage in the preparations of the Indian team for this prestigious event to get back in good form ahead of busy international seasons.
After a hiatus of 13 years, Virat Kohli’s comeback to the Ranji Trophy is a big development in Indian cricket as he looks forward to his return to his prime form. Kohli’s presence, along with other senior players such as Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja, will only make the final rounds of the Ranji Trophy all the more exhilarating.
The upcoming matches will provide these players with a much-needed opportunity to regain their skills before returning to India on an international stage in the coming months.
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