New Delhi [India], January 28: Virat Kohli has reportedly declined an offer to captain the Delhi Ranji team for their upcoming match against Railways, showing his support for young Ayush Badoni to continue leading the side.
According to a source from the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA), Kohli was approached to take over the captaincy for the upcoming match but politely refused. The source shared, “We asked Virat if he would be willing to captain for the game against Railways. However, he refused, saying, ‘Let Ayush Badoni continue. I don’t want to lead.'”
This decision highlights Kohli’s encouragement for younger players to step into leadership roles, allowing Badoni the chance to grow further.
Kohli, who joined Delhi’s practice session on Tuesday ahead of the Elite Group D Ranji Trophy match, was seen preparing for the clash against Railways at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday. The star batter, who is returning to domestic cricket after a break, was busy honing his skills in the nets.
Earlier, Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh confirmed that Kohli would feature in the squad for the match. His return to domestic cricket follows the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) firming up the inclusion of Indian internationals in domestic fixtures.
Recently, social media shared images and videos of Kohli working with former India and Royal Challengers Bangalore batting coach Sanjay Bangar, adding to the excitement surrounding his comeback.
The final round of Ranji Trophy matches will conclude on February 2, just days before India faces England in a three-match ODI series in Nagpur. Kohli has accumulated 11,479 runs in 155 First-Class matches, boasting an average of 48.23 and a strike rate of 55.96.
Alongside Kohli, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has been named in Karnataka’s squad for their crucial Ranji match against Haryana. Rahul has recovered from an elbow niggle and has been cleared by the BCCI medical team. His inclusion in the squad marks his return to domestic cricket after a lengthy absence, with his last Ranji match dating back to the 2019-20 semi-final.
Additionally, young batter Riyan Parag has been declared fit for Assam’s final league fixture against Saurashtra after recovering from a shoulder injury. He will lead Assam in this important match in Rajkot, Gujarat.