Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has been named in the Delhi domestic squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy clash against the Railways starting on January 30 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The 37-year-old will play under the leadership of 25-year-old Ayush Badoni. As per emerging reports, Kohli will join the Delhi squad shortly and will begin his preparations from Tuesday onwards. 

The Indian batting legend last made a first-class appearance for Delhi way back in the 2011-12 domestic season against Uttar Pradesh (UP) in Ghaziabad's Mohan Nagar. His return to the domestic arena in over a decade will raise the importance of the much-awaited fixture between the two sides starting on January 30.

See also: Ranji Trophy 2024-25, Group Stage Last Round: Availability status reveals of Kohli, Rohit, Gill, Jaiswal

How did the DDCA secretary react to this news?

Following the re-entry of Virat Kohli in the Delhi squad, it goes without saying that the DDCA is gearing up to witness a massive contest against the Railways on January 30. The DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma realizes the importance of this fixture and views it as a big opportunity for the budding Delhi youngsters to learn from one of the best in the business.  

"Obviously, it is a great experience for our junior players as they will get to share the dressing room with Virat. If you look at our team, only Navdeep Saini has played alongside Virat in the IPL and for India. In fact, none of the players in the team have played with Virat in the Ranji Trophy. They can learn a lot by watching him."

Ashok also assures to beef up the security around the stadium so that the chase master can practice without major disruptions. Furthermore, he also adds that the association will be planning to open three stands for the upcoming Delhi-Railways clash to accommodate more spectators and offer them a seamless experience. 

"Gate Nos. 7, 15, and 16 will be open to the public. We will arrange for drinking water, and the toilets will be clean and hygienic. Come and enjoy the match. Of course, there will be security checks before allowing the public to enter."

Revisiting Kohli's forgettable run in 2024

Despite being adjudged Player of the Match in the T20 World Cup final last year, Kohli endured a lean run throughout the year overall. In 10 Tests, Kohli scored only 417 runs at an uncharacteristically dismal average of 24.52 including just a solitary century and fifty. His ODI numbers are also far from impressive managing only 58 runs in three ODIs at an average of 19.33. 

Although a lot of excitement looms over Kohli's participation ahead of the marquee Ranji clash against the Railways, there are high chances to suggest that the game may not be televised. However, there has been no word from the BCCI on this matter as yet.