Virat Kohli In Domestic Cricket: When Did He Last Play In Ranji Trophy?

Virat Kohli in action in the Bangladesh Tests [PTI]Virat Kohli in action in the Bangladesh Tests [PTI]

Virat Kohli has been away from domestic cricket for over a decade, leaving fans nostalgic for his performances in the Ranji Trophy. Kohli’s last appearance in the tournament was way back in 2012, during a match where he represented Delhi. With his focus shifting almost entirely to international cricket, it has been a long wait to see him back in domestic whites.

Kohli’s Last Ranji Trophy Appearance

Kohli last played in the Ranji Trophy in November 2012. The match took place in Ghaziabad, where Delhi faced Uttar Pradesh under the leadership of Virender Sehwag. In that match, Kohli scored 14 runs in the first innings and 43 in the second, both times falling victim to Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Despite his modest performance, Delhi lost the game by six wickets. 

This match marked the end of Kohli's Ranji Trophy journey for the next decade, as he soon became an integral part of the Indian national team. His domestic cricket career, however, boasts an impressive record. In the Ranji Trophy, Kohli has played 23 matches, scoring 1,574 runs at an average of 51, including five centuries.

Will Kohli Return to Ranji Trophy?

Recently, there has been renewed hope of Kohli’s return to domestic cricket. On September 25, 2024, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced a list of 84 probables for the upcoming Ranji Trophy season, and Kohli's name was included. Alongside him were names like Rishabh Pant and Navdeep Saini, though veteran pacer Ishant Sharma was notably absent from the squad.

However, while Kohli has been named in the probable squad, his participation remains uncertain. India is set to play a series against New Zealand starting on October 16, 2024, just days after the Ranji Trophy kicks off on October 11. Given Kohli’s involvement in the international setup, it is unclear if he will be available for Delhi’s opening Ranji Trophy matches.

Though his involvement in the early stages of the Ranji Trophy is unlikely, there is speculation that Kohli might feature in Delhi’s clash against Jharkhand on November 13. This match coincides with India’s T20I series against South Africa, a format from which Kohli has retired.