Virat Kohli makes stunning return to Ranji Trophy after 12 years, attracting huge crowds at Arun Jaitley Stadium | WATCH
Virat Kohli's much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy captivates fans at Arun Jaitley Stadium as he seeks to regain form after a prolonged absence from domestic cricket.
Nerw Delhi: A wave of excitement engulfed Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday morning as fans began arriving as early as 5 AM, eager to witness the much-anticipated return of Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli to the Ranji Trophy. Kohli, who confirmed his participation in Delhi’s final league match against Railways earlier this month, joined the squad on Tuesday, igniting fervor for his comeback after more than a decade away from domestic cricket.
Free Entry for Fans
To commemorate this momentous occasion, the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) offered free entry to the stadium for fans, requiring only their Aadhar Cards for access. The atmosphere was electric, with crowds steadily increasing as match time approached.
Fans Show Their Support
Chants of "RCB, RCB" resonated throughout the venue, reflecting Kohli's popularity as a player for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League. Fans lined up for hours, showcasing their dedication and excitement for this historic match.
Fans started gathering at Arun Jaitley Stadium from 5 :00 AM
— Virat Kohli Fan Club (@Trend_VKohli) January 30, 2025
- The Craze of King Kohli 🐐 pic.twitter.com/3kSTqxSg1Q
Kohli's Return to Form
As Kohli steps back into domestic cricket, he aims to regain his form in red-ball cricket following a disappointing run in Tests over recent months. His return is motivated by a noticeable slump in performance since 2020, where he has accumulated 2,028 runs in 39 Tests at an average of just 30.72. This stark contrast to his previous dominance includes only three centuries, with a highest score of 186.
Intensive Training Regimen
Under the leadership of captain Ayush Badoni, Kohli engaged in rigorous two-day training sessions with his Delhi teammates, many of whom have long looked up to him as an idol. The former India captain thrived in this environment, enjoying camaraderie while diligently refining his batting techniques.
Focus on Technique
With head coach Sarandeep Singh closely monitoring his progress, Kohli focused on enhancing his footwork against spin and addressing vulnerabilities outside off-stump. His methodical approach included expanding his backfoot shot-making repertoire, all aimed at reigniting his prowess in red-ball cricket.In summary, Virat Kohli's return to the Ranji Trophy not only marks a significant moment in his career but also reignites hope among fans and players alike for a resurgence of one of cricket's greatest talents.
