Virat Kohli has informed the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) that he will be available for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, marking a significant return to India’s domestic one-day competition after a span of 15 years. The development comes only days after his post-match comments in Ranchi—where he suggested that he did not require extra match practice before international fixtures—reportedly left the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) dissatisfied.

Kohli’s decision represents a notable shift in stance, given that he had earlier appeared reluctant to take part in domestic cricket. However, after scoring a superb 135 in the second ODI against South Africa in Ranchi on Sunday, the senior batter appears to have reassessed his position. His availability has now brought renewed attention to the Delhi squad, which begins its campaign against Andhra Pradesh in Alur on 24 December.

DDCA confirms Kohli’s participation

DDCA officials confirmed that Kohli communicated his availability formally, emphasising that the veteran remains committed to contributing to Delhi’s cricketing structure. “Virat has confirmed his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He will be playing matches at the Centre of Excellence,” a senior official said.

The tournament will offer Kohli the opportunity to reconnect with the domestic circuit, a move that aligns with the BCCI’s directive asking senior players to participate in domestic one-day tournaments to stay in the frame for India’s ODI roadmap. Rohit Sharma, too, has already confirmed his availability for Mumbai, making the involvement of both senior-most batters a major talking point ahead of the competition.

Reaction to Ranchi remarks

Kohli’s remarks after the Ranchi ODI had sparked an unexpected debate. After guiding India to victory with a match-winning 135, he said:
“I’ve never been a big believer in a lot of preparation, if that makes sense. All my cricket has been mental. As long as I feel good mentally, I can play the game.”

He added that the sheer volume of cricket he has played—across formats—for nearly two decades meant he no longer required extended sessions of match practice to prepare adequately.
“I’ve played 300-odd ODI games and so much cricket over the last 15–16 years. If you can bat an hour and a half, two hours in the nets without taking a break, you’re meeting all the markers,” he said.

According to reports, these comments “had not gone down well” with the BCCI, especially since the board had earlier asked both Kohli and Rohit to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to remain part of India’s long-term ODI planning. While Rohit responded quickly, Kohli had kept officials waiting, prompting speculation about his intentions. His eventual decision to play has now put an end to those doubts.

Focus on readiness, not repetitions

Kohli, 37, also stressed that his preparation hinges more on mental clarity and fitness than on repetitive drills.
“As long as you’re hitting the ball well and you’re playing good cricket, at this stage with the experience that I have, for me it’s about being physically fit, mentally ready and excited to play the games that I’m playing,” he said. “Everything else should take care of itself.”

These statements, while consistent with Kohli’s long-held philosophy on training and workload management, triggered a wider discussion about the role of domestic cricket for senior players who are approaching the twilight of their careers.

ODI future under scrutiny

Kohli’s return to domestic one-day cricket comes at a time when discussions about the long-term ODI prospects of both him and Rohit Sharma—aged 37 and 38 respectively—have intensified. With the next ODI World Cup scheduled for 2027, selectors and team management are expected to begin long-term planning soon.

Despite the chatter, Kohli has shown no signs of decline. His consecutive centuries against South Africa in the ongoing ODI series have highlighted both his form and his hunger to compete at the highest level. With 15–16 years of international experience, Kohli remains India’s most prolific ODI batter and continues to be central to India’s limited-overs setup.

What his return means for Delhi

Kohli’s presence is expected to significantly boost Delhi’s campaign, not only in terms of performance but also in terms of morale and visibility. For young players in the squad, sharing a dressing room with one of the game’s modern greats provides invaluable exposure.

The Delhi team, which has experienced mixed results in recent domestic seasons, will hope that Kohli’s introduction can bring stability and higher standards in both preparation and match temperament. His participation is also likely to draw larger crowds and renewed interest in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s decision to return to domestic cricket marks an important moment for Indian cricket, particularly at a time when discussions about workload, longevity and future planning dominate the conversation. His involvement in the Vijay Hazare Trophy signals both commitment and readiness to align with the BCCI’s expectations, even as he continues to deliver world-class performances on the international stage. Delhi, meanwhile, will look to capitalise on the presence of their most illustrious player when the tournament begins later this month.