Virat Kohli's Disappointing Return to Ranji Trophy: Dismissed for 6 Runs

Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy with Delhi didn’t go according to plan, as the star batter was dismissed cheaply for just 6 runs off 15 balls in the first innings. The 36-year-old’s brief stay at the crease ended when Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan bowled a brilliant delivery that shattered Kohli’s off-stump.

A GLIMPSE OF PROMISE BEFORE THE FALL

Kohli had shown some of his trademark flair when he struck a crisp boundary with a delightful straight drive off the previous ball. However, Sangwan adjusted his length and delivered a ball that deceived Kohli, causing his stumps to be sent cartwheeling.

FANS DISAPPOINTED AS KOHLI DEPARTS EARLY

The sudden dismissal deflated the atmosphere in the stands, with a stunned silence descending upon the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Fans who had packed the stadium in massive numbers, many arriving as early as 3 AM, were left heartbroken as their idol’s return to domestic cricket ended in disappointment. The mood shifted quickly, with many supporters opting to leave the venue right after Kohli's departure.

THE BUILD-UP TO KOHLI'S RANJI DEBUT

The excitement surrounding Kohli’s Ranji return had reached fever pitch, with fans eager for a glimpse of their cricketing hero. Kohli’s presence in the Delhi squad for the prestigious tournament was seen as a special occasion, and his interactions with the crowd throughout the day added to the anticipation.

KOHLI’S RECENT STRUGGLES WITH THE BAT

This underwhelming performance follows a challenging phase for Kohli, who has struggled for form in recent Test matches. The batter managed just one century and failed to register a half-century throughout his 10 Test innings in the previous season. His solitary hundred came in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, but he couldn’t capitalize on that momentum, ending the series with fewer than 100 total runs in his remaining four matches.

A HOPE FOR REDEMPTION IN THE SECOND INNINGS

After the early disappointment in the first innings, fans are hopeful that Kohli will find his rhythm in the second innings. His supporters, who thronged the stadium in large numbers, will be hoping for a much-needed comeback as they look forward to a defining knock from their cricketing icon.

BCCI’S CALL FOR INTERNATIONAL PLAYERS IN RANJI

Kohli’s inclusion in Delhi’s Ranji squad comes after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) directed all international players to participate in the domestic tournament, following a collective dip in form from India’s batting lineup. Kohli had spent the previous days training with the Delhi Ranji team and played under the captaincy of Ayush Badoni on Day 1 of the match.

The focus now shifts to whether Kohli can regain his form and deliver the knock that his supporters are eagerly waiting for.