Virat Kohli, the former captain of the Indian cricket team, is set to make a much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after a hiatus of 13 years. As he prepares to represent Delhi against Railways starting January 30, fans and analysts alike are reflecting on his illustrious domestic career. Kohli’s journey in the Ranji Trophy is not just a tale of numbers; it encapsulates the evolution of a young talent into one of cricket’s modern greats.
The making of a star
Kohli made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 2006-07 season against Tamil Nadu at Feroz Shah Kotla. Despite a rocky start, scoring only 10 runs in his first match, he quickly established himself as a formidable player. His performance over the years showcases both resilience and remarkable skill.
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Year-by-year breakdown
| Season | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
| 2006-07 | 6 | 257 | 36.71 | 0 |
| 2007-08 | 5 | 373 | 53.28 | 2 |
| 2008-09 | 4 | 174 | 34.80 | 0 |
| 2009-10 | 3 | 374 | 93.50 | 1 |
| 2010-11 | 4 | 339 | 56.50 | 2 |
| 2012-13 | 1 | 57 | 28.50 | 0 |
| Total | 23 | 1574 | 50.77 | 5 |
Highlights of Virat Kohli’s performance in Ranji Trophy
- 2007-08 Season: This was Kohli’s breakout year, where he scored 373 runs at an average of 53.28, including two centuries against Rajasthan and Karnataka.
- 2009-10 Season: Arguably his best season, Kohli amassed 374 runs in just three matches, achieving an extraordinary average of 93.5 with one century (173 against Bengal).
- 2010-11 Season: Continuing his strong form, he scored 339 runs, including two centuries, solidifying his reputation as a reliable batter.
Despite these impressive statistics, Kohli’s last appearance in the Ranji Trophy was during the 2012-13 season, where he played only one match due to his commitments with the national team.
The impact of international commitments
Kohli’s international career took off shortly after his debut in domestic cricket, which limited his opportunities to play in the Ranji Trophy. The increasing demands of international and IPL commitments have made it challenging for top players like him to participate regularly in domestic tournaments.
Kohli’s comeback after years
As Kohli prepares for his return to the Ranji Trophy, it represents not only a chance for him to reconnect with domestic cricket but also an opportunity to refine his skills amidst ongoing challenges in international formats. His last international outing showed some inconsistencies that could benefit from the competitive environment of domestic cricket.
A legacy to cherish
Kohli’s journey through the Ranji Trophy paints a picture of growth and determination. With a total of 1,574 runs at an average of 50.77, including five centuries over six seasons, he has laid a strong foundation for what has become an extraordinary international career. As he steps back onto the field for Delhi against Railways, all eyes will be on him—not just to see if he can replicate past successes but also to witness how this seasoned player adapts after years away from domestic cricket.