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Virat Kohli’s Return To Ranji Trophy After 13 Years: A Homecoming To Delhi Cricket

Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, is set to make his return to the Ranji Trophy, wearing the Delhi jersey for the first time in 13 years. The upcoming Delhi-Railways clash at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday will mark a significant moment in his career, bringing him back to the domestic circuit where his journey to international stardom began.

Having dominated world cricket for over a decade, the 36-year-old batter is taking a step back to domestic cricket in an effort to regain his consistency in Test matches.

Why is Kohli Returning to Ranji Trophy?

Kohli has experienced a decline in his Test performances since 2020:

  • Played 39 Tests, scoring 2,028 runs at an average of 30.72.
  • In the 2023 ICC World Test Championship cycle, he scored 751 runs at an average of 32.65.
  • In 2023 alone, he managed just 417 runs in 10 Tests at an average of 24.52.

These numbers are significantly lower than his peak years, and his decision to return to domestic cricket reflects his determination to refine his game and regain his dominance in Test cricket.

Training and Preparation with Delhi Team

Ahead of the Ranji Trophy match, Kohli participated in an intense two-day training session with the Delhi squad, led by Ayush Badoni. His net sessions focused on addressing key areas of concern, including:

  • Handling spin bowling effectively.
  • Working on deliveries outside the off-stump.
  • Enhancing his backfoot play.

Under the guidance of head coach Sarandeep Singh, Kohli engaged in discussions with his teammates, many of whom have grown up watching and admiring his performances on the international stage.

Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Journey So Far

Kohli made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 2006-07 season, scoring 257 runs at an average of 36.71. His breakthrough came in the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons:

  • In 2009-10, he scored 374 runs at an average of 93.50, with a highest score of 145.
  • In 2010-11, he followed up with 339 runs at an average of 56.50, including a top score of 173.

His last Ranji Trophy appearance was in 2012 against Uttar Pradesh, where he was dismissed for 14 and 42 by Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

In total, Kohli has played 23 Ranji Trophy matches, scoring 1,573 runs at an average of 50.77, with five centuries and six fifties.

The Significance of Kohli’s Return

Returning to his roots in Delhi cricket, Kohli is looking to rediscover the hunger and rhythm that once made him one of the most dominant batters in world cricket. Fans are eagerly awaiting his performance in the upcoming match, as it could mark the beginning of a strong resurgence in his Test career.

His return to domestic cricket is not just about scoring runs but also about setting an example for young cricketers, showing that even the biggest names in the sport are willing to go back to basics to improve their game. His performance in this Ranji Trophy match will be closely watched, as it may signal the start of a new chapter in his illustrious career.

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