Virat Kohli has long been the heartbeat of Indian cricket, a player whose intensity, hunger and discipline continue to inspire even after nearly two decades at the top. At thirty-seven, with countless records and unforgettable innings behind him, he still manages to stir excitement every time he walks out to bat. That same energy now flows into a story much closer to home, as he prepares to reconnect with the domestic circuit after many years away.
Delhi & District Cricket Association president Rohan Jaitley has confirmed that Virat Kohli will take part in the upcoming 2025–26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, marking his return to the tournament after a gap of fifteen years. Though Rohan Jaitley did not specify how many matches he will play, he noted that Kohli has clearly communicated his availability and his presence alone will be a huge lift for the Delhi dressing room. The confirmation comes at a time when rumours suggested Virat Kohli might decline participation but the DDCA chief has now firmly settled the matter.
Virat Kohli is currently in Raipur, representing India in a three-match ODI series against South Africa. The Vijay Hazare Trophy begins on December 24, with all of Delhi’s group games scheduled in Alur or Bengaluru. His last appearance in the competition came back in February 2010, a period when he was still shaping his identity in international cricket, soon to become a World Cup winner, skipper and one of the most influential batters of his generation.
Over the years, his responsibilities across formats reduced the window for domestic cricket, making such appearances rare. He did make a brief return to the Ranji Trophy last year, a move influenced by the BCCI’s directive pushing contracted players to feature in domestic events whenever their international schedule allowed. After stepping away from Tests and ending his T20I career earlier in 2024, ODIs remain his only active international format, and with an eye on the 2027 World Cup, match rhythm has become even more important.
The BCCI has reportedly urged both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to participate in the Vijay Hazare Trophy to maintain competitive sharpness. Virat Kohli has already shown he is up for the challenge, delivering a match-winning century in the first ODI against South Africa and reminding everyone that he thrives not on over-preparation but on clarity and intent. His return to the domestic one-day stage after so long adds yet another compelling chapter to his remarkable journey.
