Virat Kohli’s much-awaited return to Ranji Trophy was short-lived. He managed just 6 runs on Day 2 of Delhi’s match against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. While it began with a roaring reception from the home crowd, soon enough, Kohli’s batting struggles became disappointment. Many fans left the stadium frustrated with his early exit.
Kohli, who came back to domestic cricket after 12 years, was supposed to consolidate Delhi’s innings after they lost Yash Dhull early. The packed stands burst into chants of “Kohli, Kohli” as he walked in at number four. But Kohli’s time at the wicket was pretty short, lasting just 15 balls. After a glorious boundary off Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, he was caught out by an in-swinging delivery, which crashed into his stumps.
Virat Kohli Wicket Vs Railway Ranji Trophy Match pic.twitter.com/Y3hdYcC2kC
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Delhi’s score stood at 86 for 3, trailing Railways by 155 runs after Kohli’s dismissal. Kohli’s form has raised concerns, especially following recent Test performances against New Zealand and Australia. His return to domestic cricket was seen as a chance to regain rhythm ahead of India’s Test series against England, but his early exit only heightened concerns.
Leading up to the match, the excitement surrounding Kohli’s Ranji return had reached fever pitch. Fans lined up outside the Arun Jaitley Stadium for practice sessions and filled the stands with banners and posters. Despite the overwhelming support, Kohli failed to make an impact, leaving many disappointed.
His last Ranji encounter was against Uttar Pradesh in the year 2012. Indian stars such as Kohli under this BCCI initiative play domestically, thus vindicating why first-class cricket is vital while selecting the side for national levels. The current stars participating from this move were Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul too.
Although the early fall handed Kohli an ill-timed rebuke, redemption is available to him in the second innings at Delhi. And the pressure will be sky-high when fans and selectors eagerly await much-improved performances from the Indian cricket icon.