WATCH: Virat Kohli-mania takes over Delhi as fans flock to Arun Jaitley Stadium for Delhi vs Railways Ranji Trophy clash

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A wave of excitement swept through Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday morning as fans began to gather at the venue as early as 5 AM, eager to witness the return of Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli to the Ranji Trophy 2024-25. Kohli, who had confirmed his availability for Delhi’s final league match against Railways earlier this month, joined the squad on Tuesday, fuelling anticipation for his comeback after more than 12 years away from domestic cricket.

Virat Kohli’s long-awaited comeback

Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy is not just a personal milestone but a significant event in Indian cricket history. The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) made entry to the stadium free for fans, requiring only an Aadhar Card for access. This gesture was a clear indication of the excitement surrounding Kohli’s appearance, as thousands of fans flocked to the stadium, chanting “RCB, RCB,” in homage to Kohli’s IPL team, Royal Challengers Bangalore.

The atmosphere was electric, with fans reminiscing about Kohli’s last Ranji appearance in November 2012 against Uttar Pradesh, where he scored 14 and 43 runs. Since then, he has become one of cricket’s most celebrated figures, leading India across formats and breaking numerous records. His decision to return to domestic cricket comes after a challenging period in his Test career, where he struggled with form and consistency. In 39 Tests since 2020, Kohli averaged just 30.72 with only three centuries to his name.

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy journey: Yearly performance breakdown of the modern day great

Here’s the video:

Kohli training like a champion with Delhi squad

In preparation for this much-anticipated match, Kohli immersed himself in intense training sessions alongside his Delhi teammates. Under the watchful eye of head coach Sarandeep Singh, he worked diligently on refining his skills—particularly focusing on footwork against spin and addressing vulnerabilities outside off-stump. This methodical approach reflects Kohli’s commitment to reclaiming his red-ball prowess and reintegrating into the domestic scene.

His teammates were equally excited about playing alongside him. Many had grown up idolizing Kohli and were eager to impress him during practice sessions. Skipper Ayush Badoni noted how surreal it was to share the field with someone who had been a source of inspiration throughout their cricketing journeys.

Nostalgic homecoming of Delhi

The significance of this match extends beyond statistics; it represents a nostalgic homecoming for Kohli and his fans. As he steps onto the familiar turf of Arun Jaitley Stadium, the memories of past glories flood back—not just for him but for countless supporters who have followed his journey from a young cricketer to a global icon. The camaraderie among teammates and the palpable excitement among fans create an atmosphere reminiscent of cricket’s golden days in India.

As match day approached, preparations at the stadium intensified. The DDCA anticipated an unprecedented turnout and took measures to ensure that every fan could witness this historic moment live. Additional seating arrangements were made to accommodate the expected crowd, with special security protocols in place to manage the influx of spectators eager to catch a glimpse of their hero.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli gives valuable advice to a young fan ahead of Delhi vs Railways Ranji Trophy clash




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