Ranji Trophy: Virat Kohli's early dismissal disappoints fans, many leave stadium | Watch
PTC Web Desk: Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy turned out to be a letdown, as the star batter managed just 6 runs before being bowled out on Day 2 of Delhi’s match against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. The excitement of the home crowd quickly faded as Kohli’s struggles with the bat continued, leading to a mass exit from the stands.
Stepping onto the domestic stage after 12 years, Virat Kohli was expected to anchor Delhi’s innings after the early dismissal of Yash Dhull. The packed stadium erupted with chants of “Kohli, Kohli” as the veteran batter walked in at number four. However, his stay at the crease was short-lived, lasting only 15 deliveries. After hitting a crisp boundary off Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, Kohli fell on the very next ball—an in-swinger that rattled his stumps.
Virat Kohli Wicket Vs Railway Ranji Trophy Match pic.twitter.com/Y3hdYcC2kC — yogendracrick (@cricketlover672) January 31, 2025
With Delhi reeling at 86 for 3 and trailing by 155 runs, Kohli’s poor form has once again raised concerns, especially ahead of India’s crucial Test series against England. His recent performances in red-ball cricket against New Zealand and Australia have been under scrutiny, and his early exit in the Ranji Trophy only adds to the worries.
Hype surrounding Virat Kohli’s return was nothing short of a spectacle, with fans practically camping outside stadium during practice sessions, as if they were waiting for second coming of cricket itself. Matchday saw thousands in attendance, hoping for a memorable comeback. Instead, they were left disappointed.
Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy game in 2012 against Uttar Pradesh, and his return aligns with BCCI’s push to encourage senior players to participate in domestic cricket. Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal have also featured in the tournament under this initiative.
Despite this setback, Kohli will have another chance to make amends in Delhi’s second innings. However, the pressure is mounting, with both fans and selectors hoping for a strong response from the batting maestro.
- With inputs from agencies