Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to domestic cricket after nearly a decade attracted a massive crowd to Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium. Playing for Delhi against Railways in the Ranji Trophy, Kohli participated following BCCI’s directive mandating players to compete in domestic matches after India’s 3-1 defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The stadium was packed with enthusiastic fans, chanting Kohli’s name. In a notable moment, a fan breached security to touch Kohli’s feet before being escorted away. Kohli, however, requested security not to harm him. Outside the venue, chaos unfolded as fans struggled to gain entry, leading to long queues and a stampede-like situation. According to Odishatv.in, at least three people sustained injuries requiring medical attention, and a police motorcycle was damaged amid the disorder. The DDCA and the police responded quickly, providing medical attention, although officials later issued denials of injuries to anyone.
Meanwhile, fans keenly waiting to watch Kohli bat had to wait as Delhi chose to bowl first after winning the toss, and the bowlers got the better of the Railways. The latter were reduced to 132-5 at the time of writing. Coming off a disastrous tour of Australia, Kohli will look to get himself back in form for the Champions Trophy. His Test selection for the England tour is uncertain, but some strong performances in Ranji and the Champions Trophy might get him into the mix. Otherwise, BCCI will have to take some tough decisions about his future in the format.