Virat Kohli has officially confirmed his participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, putting an end to weeks of speculation over his domestic cricket plans. Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) president Rohan Jaitly revealed on Tuesday evening that the former India captain has communicated his availability for the tournament, which begins on December 24.
“Yes, Virat Kohli has confirmed his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He is available and cannot wait to represent the team. He is likely to play three matches for us,” Jaitly told Hindustan Times.
Delhi will open their campaign on December 24 against Andhra Pradesh.
Speculation Ends Amid Management’s Push for Game Time
Kohli’s confirmation comes at a time when rumours were rife about a rift with the Indian team management. Head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have insisted that both Kohli and Rohit Sharma participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to gain crucial match practice ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup cycle.
Since the senior duo returned to the ODI setup in October against Australia, debates have intensified around their future and potential World Cup 2027 selection. Reports had earlier suggested that the pair would be asked to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy if they intended to remain in contention.
Kohli, Rohit Respond With Runs on the Field
Despite the buzz, both Kohli and Rohit have silenced critics with commanding on-field performances. Kohli scored a brilliant 135 and Rohit made 57 during their 136-run stand in the recent ODI against South Africa. Earlier in Sydney, they stitched another century partnership—Rohit unbeaten on 121 and Kohli finishing on 74*.
After his match-winning knock against South Africa, Kohli remarked that he doesn’t need “excessive preparation”—a comment widely viewed as a subtle dig at the management’s insistence on domestic cricket.
Tense Dressing Room Atmosphere?
Kohli and Rohit’s strained rapport with head coach Gambhir has been among Indian cricket’s hottest talking points. A recent moment in the dressing room, where Kohli walked past Gambhir without interaction, further fuelled chatter about communication gaps within the setup. Rohit, however, did pause to speak briefly with the coach.
Which Matches Will Kohli Play?
India play a three-match ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11. Kohli is expected to join the national camp 2–3 days prior, making it likely that he will feature in at least three Vijay Hazare Trophy matches.
Delhi’s group-stage fixtures are against Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Saurashtra, Odisha, Services, Railways and Haryana—three of which are scheduled before January 11. The exact games Kohli will play remain unconfirmed, particularly with the batter expected to travel to London after the South Africa series concludes on December 6.
Kohli Returns to Domestic 50-Over Cricket After 15 Years
Kohli last appeared in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2010 when he captained Delhi against Services. His return marks the end of a 15-year hiatus and positions him as a vital presence in a Delhi cricket setup that has struggled in recent Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali seasons.