Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy was met with electrifying chants of “RCB, RCB” as he stepped onto the field at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The star Indian batter, representing Delhi, played against Railways in the highly anticipated Ranji Trophy 2024-25 clash.
Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Comeback
The 36-year-old batting icon returned to first-class cricket after a 12-year hiatus, marking his last Ranji Trophy appearance back in November 2012. The stadium buzzed with excitement as fans gathered early in the morning to catch a glimpse of their favorite cricketer.
Kohli, who has been a loyal Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) player since joining the IPL franchise in 2008, received a warm welcome from supporters chanting his IPL team’s name.
When Did Virat Kohli Last Play in the Ranji Trophy?
Kohli’s previous Ranji Trophy appearance was in 2012 against Uttar Pradesh (UP) in Ghaziabad. Stepping in at 77/2, he shared the crease with legends Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag. However, his innings was cut short at 14 runs off 19 balls, as he fell to Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
Despite Delhi posting 235, UP took control with 403 runs, thanks to stellar knocks from Mukul Dagar (116) and Mohammad Kaif (91). Delhi, struggling in their second innings, managed only 154 runs, leading to a six-wicket defeat. Kohli contributed 43 runs before being dismissed once again by Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
A Special Homecoming for Kohli
Returning to the stadium where his legendary cricket journey began, Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) made special arrangements to welcome Kohli back to the Ranji Trophy fold.
With fans eagerly watching, Kohli aims to make this comeback a memorable one, looking to notch up a big score and reaffirm his dominance in domestic red-ball cricket.