Key Highlights
- Virat Kohli is reportedly set to make himself available for his state team, Delhi, in the upcoming domestic 50-over tournament.
- The three-match ODI series against South Africa will conclude on December 6, after which senior players may be available for at least a few matches.
- The Vijay Hazare Trophy will take place between December 24 and January 18.
- Delhi & District Cricket Association has not yet received formal confirmation of Virat Kohli’s participation.
Virat Kohli Set to Return for Delhi in Upcoming Domestic Tournament
Former Team India skipper Virat Kohli is reportedly set to make himself available for his state team, Delhi, in the upcoming domestic 50-over tournament, the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This decision comes after a busy schedule that includes the three-match ODI series against South Africa.
The ODI series will conclude on December 6, and Kohli is expected to travel to London for a brief break before joining the Delhi squad in Bengaluru. The tournament itself will span from December 24 to January 18, with BCCI urging senior cricketers to participate.
According to a report in the Times of India, Kohli plans to play some matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi in Bengaluru.
Gautam Gambhir, a former teammate and now a respected commentator, has noted that while Rohit Sharma is likely to turn up for Mumbai, it is understood that Kohli plans to play some games for Delhi. The report also mentions that Kohli is expected to fly back to London after the conclusion of the ODI series before joining the Delhi squad in Bengaluru.
The BCCI is planning a meeting with selectors and team management after the South Africa ODI series to discuss future ODI plans for both Rohit Sharma and Kohli. These discussions are expected to provide more clarity on how long both senior players will continue in India’s one-day setup, especially considering the 2027 ODI World Cup still a few years away.
Delhi’s Record with Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli has not appeared in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for over ten years. However, during his last stint, from 2008 to 2010, he played 13 matches and scored a total of 819 runs at an average of 68.25 with a strike rate of 106.08. His highest score was 124, and he captained Delhi in five matches during that period, winning three of them.
DDCA’s Current Stand
The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has not yet received formal confirmation from Kohli regarding his participation. Despite this, the DDCA remains hopeful and is preparing for potential involvement. According to reports, the BCCI is planning a meeting with selectors and team management post the South Africa ODI series to finalize plans.
The decision on whether Kohli will participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy could have significant implications for both his career trajectory and the upcoming one-day international setup in India. The discussions are expected to provide more clarity on how long senior players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma will continue to be a part of the national team.
