Team India’s star, Virat Kohli, couldn’t do much in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 during the Australia tour. He scored a century but ended up with only 190 runs in 9 innings. Kohli, who has been struggling with poor form, could make his return to the Ranji Trophy after 13 years. He is expected to play for Delhi in the second phase of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy.

There is still suspense over whether Kohli will feature in the Ranji Trophy. Reports from national media indicate that Kohli has taken an injection due to neck pain and is resting. These reports also suggest that Kohli may miss Delhi’s Ranji match against Saurashtra, starting January 23 in Rajkot.

Kohli’s Neck Injury and Possible Absence from Ranji Trophy

Virat Kohli has sprained his neck and has received an injection for the injury. Due to this, he is likely to miss Delhi’s first match in the remaining two Ranji Trophy matches. The Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) selectors are expected to provide an update on Kohli’s availability soon, offering a clearer picture, as reported by the Times of India citing BCCI sources.

When Did Kohli Last Play in the Ranji Trophy?

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has included Virat Kohli’s name in the list of probable players for the Ranji Trophy. DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma mentioned in media reports, “Virat Kohli should take inspiration from Mumbai players. Whenever their big players are available, they play domestic cricket. Kohli should do the same when he’s available.”

Virat Kohli’s Last Ranji Match

Virat Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy match 13 years ago. He played for Delhi against Uttar Pradesh (UP) in 2012. The match was held in Ghaziabad, where Kohli scored 14 runs in the first innings and 43 runs in the second innings.

Kohli’s Recent Form

Before the Australia tour, Virat Kohli played a three-match Test series against New Zealand at home. However, his bat was quiet during this series as well. Kohli scored 70 runs in one innings of the first match but only crossed double figures once in the next five innings, with a highest score of 17 runs.

DDCA to Announce Squad

The DDCA is set to announce the Ranji squad on Friday. This will confirm whether Kohli will play or not. In the meantime, reports suggest that Kohli will train with the Delhi team on January 21 and 22 but is not expected to play in the tournament.