Former Indian cricket captain and renowned batsman Virat Kohli is gearing up to return to domestic cricket, representing Delhi in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. This prestigious 50-over tournament is set to commence on December 24, with Puducherry facing Tamil Nadu in the inaugural match.
Despite initial reports suggesting that Kohli might skip the tournament due to ongoing tensions with Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, he is now confirmed to participate. Kohli, who has retired from T20Is and Tests, aims to extend his ODI career alongside Rohit Sharma, with an eye on the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.
A source close to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) indicated that Kohli had initially declined to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, recent updates confirm his availability. Ashok Sharma, secretary of the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA), stated that Kohli will participate in 'a few matches' during the tournament.
"He will definitely play a few games, but it’s uncertain if he will be available for the entire Vijay Hazare Trophy," Sharma mentioned.
The announcement of Kohli's participation has generated significant excitement among fans, marking his return to a 50-over domestic tournament after more than 15 years. Social media platforms have been abuzz with fans expressing their anticipation for Kohli to don the Delhi colors once again.
Kohli's last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was in 2010, and he has since focused on his international career. He boasts an impressive record in the tournament, having scored 819 runs, including four centuries and five fifties, at an average of 68.50 across 13 matches.
Delhi will kick off their campaign for a second Vijay Hazare Trophy title against Andhra Pradesh on December 24 in Bengaluru. However, it remains unclear if Kohli will play in this opening match.
Currently, Kohli is part of the Indian team competing in an ODI series against South Africa. In the first match of the series, he scored an impressive 135 runs off 120 balls, marking his 52nd ODI century and 83rd international century.
