Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Where will Virat Kohli slot in for Delhi? Ayush Badoni confirms
Xtra Time Web Desk: Delhi captain Ayush Badoni has confirmed that Virat Kohli will take the No. 4 batting position as he returns to Ranji Trophy action against Railways on Thursday, January 30. Kohli is making his first appearance for Delhi in 13 years, aiming to regain form following a challenging series in Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The star batter managed just 190 runs in nine innings, falling eight times to deliveries outside off-stump, raising concerns about his Test match consistency. With key Indian players like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant returning to Ranji Trophy cricket, Kohli has opted for the same route to rebuild his confidence. Since joining the Delhi squad, he has been deeply involved in intense training, focusing on improving his backfoot play. Kohli has also been spotted sharing lighthearted moments with childhood friends and teammates.
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His return has created immense excitement, prompting the BCCI to livestream the match. Speaking on the eve of the game, Badoni revealed Kohli’s advice to the team.
"He will bat at No. 4. He has told us to be positive and express ourselves confidently," Badoni told PTI.
The young Delhi captain also expressed his excitement at leading a side featuring such high-profile players.
"I have played against Virat bhaiyya in the IPL. It is an honour that in back-to-back matches I have now led Rishabh and Virat bhaiyya."
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Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy records, A glimpse before his much-awaited return to Delhi
Kohli, who made his Ranji Trophy debut in November 2006, last played in the tournament in 2012. Over 23 matches, he has accumulated 1,547 runs, including five centuries. Here’s a year-wise breakdown of his Ranji performances:
- 2006-07: 6 matches, 257 runs, 1 fifty (HS: 90)
- 2007-08: 5 matches, 373 runs, 2 centuries (HS: 169)
- 2008-09: 4 matches, 174 runs, 2 fifties (HS: 83)
- 2009-10: 3 matches, 374 runs, 1 century, 2 fifties (HS: 145)
- 2010-11: 4 matches, 339 runs, 2 centuries (HS: 173)
- 2012-13: 1 match, 57 runs (HS: 43)
Kohli’s return adds significant strength to Delhi’s lineup, and all eyes will be on him as he looks to rediscover his rhythm in red-ball cricket.
