Virat Kohli to Participate in Vijay Hazare Trophy Starting December 24
Kohli's Return to Domestic Cricket
Rohan Jaitley, the president of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), announced that Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has confirmed his participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, which kicks off on December 24.
Currently, Kohli is engaged in an ODI series against South Africa, marking his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy for the first time since playing against the Army in February 2010.
Kohli's Recent Performance
At 37 years old, Kohli recently scored his 52nd century during the first match of the series in Ranchi, demonstrating his form despite announcing his retirement from Test cricket earlier this year.
He had previously retired from T20 internationals following India's victory in the 2024 World Cup held in Barbados.
Impact on Delhi Team
Jaitley mentioned to a news agency, 'He has confirmed his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. It remains unclear how many matches he will play, but his presence will undoubtedly boost the morale of the Delhi dressing room.'
Delhi will commence their Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign against Andhra in Bengaluru on December 24, with the team scheduled to play a total of six matches.
Fan Anticipation
With Kohli on the field, a significant turnout of fans is expected. Earlier this year, he drew a crowd of over 12,000 during a Ranji Trophy match, marking his first first-class game in over a decade.
This attendance figure was unprecedented for a domestic match in recent times.
Kohli's Future in Cricket
Kohli returned to the Ranji Trophy to prepare for international cricket but made headlines by announcing his retirement from Test cricket before the England tour.
The BCCI has mandated that contracted players participate in domestic cricket unless they are injured or representing the national team.
Rohit Sharma's Participation
Rohit Sharma, who also retired from Test cricket before the England tour, is expected to play for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Both Kohli and Rohit scored runs in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi.
Recent International Matches
Kohli played his first international match in months during the recent tour of Australia, where he struggled to score in the first two ODIs but managed to hit a half-century in the third and final match, while Rohit scored a century in the same game.