For the first time in over 12 years, there was talk of Virat Kohli making his return to the Ranji Trophy. However, that much-anticipated comeback isn’t happening just yet. Kohli has informed the Indian cricket board’s medical team that he has not fully recovered from a neck issue.
Since the conclusion of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Sydney earlier this month, Kohli has been dealing with neck pain. Reports suggest he received an injection on January 8, but the discomfort persists, as confirmed by the batting maestro.
As a result, Kohli will miss Delhi’s next Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra.
Following India’s recent 3-1 victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, after being whitewashed at home by New Zealand, the focus has shifted to the team’s batting struggles, which were the root cause of both losses. The reluctance of star players to participate in domestic cricket has been a hot topic in Indian cricket. Many former cricketers and experts have questioned the commitment and mindset of senior players. The Indian cricket board has also issued directives urging everyone to participate in domestic cricket. This sparked discussions about Kohli and other stars returning to the Ranji Trophy.
Kohli last played domestic first-class cricket in November 2012 for Delhi against Uttar Pradesh, under the captaincy of Virender Sehwag. Gautam Gambhir, now India’s head coach, Ashish Nehra, and Unmukt Chand were part of that team.
Kohli’s most recent first-class match outside Test cricket was in 2015, representing India ‘A’ against Australia ‘A.’
KL Rahul will also miss this Ranji Trophy round due to an elbow issue.
There is another opportunity for both players to play in the next Ranji Trophy round, starting on January 30. However, by the time that match concludes, India’s ODI series against England will be close, making their participation in that round uncertain.
Among India’s regular Test players, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shubman Gill have confirmed their participation in this Ranji Trophy round.
