Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy future publicly revealed by Delhi Coach Sarandeep Singh

Virat Kohli, India's senior batsman, returned to the Ranji Trophy after a 12-year absence. Kohli's return came amid calls for veteran players to play local cricket following the Border-Gavaskar series loss in Australia.

Kohli did not last long at the crease, being removed for only six runs by Railways' Sarandeep Singh. However, Ayush Badoni-led Delhi was encouraged by Kohli's return, defeating Railways by an innings and 19 runs.

Despite Virat Kohli's brief innings of six off 15 balls on Day 2, which saw thousands of fans leave the stadium, spectators returned in large numbers the next day.

“There is a definite commitment”- Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh on Virat Kohli’s return to Delhi Ranji side

After Delhi's Ranji Trophy season came to an end, coach Sarandeep Singh revealed that Kohli has confirmed he will return if he gets another opportunity. Sarandeep said that Kohli has the intent to play domestic cricket but a packed international schedule keeps him busy.

“He loves and wants to play domestic cricket but because he plays all three formats in international cricket, it is busy and hectic. The domestic season also coincides with the international schedule and sometimes he also needs rest,” Sarandeep Singh told Hindustan Times.

Kohli's presence in the contest sparked a frenzy among supporters, highlighting his cult status. His return occurred after the BCCI instructed India's stars to play domestic cricket following the Test series setback in Australia.

Virat Kohli’s impact on Delhi’s younger players

He emphasized that 'hanging' with old friends and coaching Delhi's youth would help Kohli regain a 'positive frame of mind', which remains his first goal. With an eye on the Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19, Sarandeep stated that Kohli was also practicing white-ball cricket while with the Delhi team.

“He had already been practicing every day. He would come at around 8 am, train a lot, and then join the other batters for the nets session at 9-9:30 am. The boys were very confident. They learned a lot of things from him. He talked to them every day about how to play disciplined cricket. That discipline should exist not just in the ground, but even outside. He urged them to show character in the last game,” Sarandeep Singh stated.

Virat Kohli will now join the Indian team for the three-ODI series against England in Nagpur ahead of the first match on February 6.

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