Virat Kohli Returns to Nets for Vijay Hazare Trophy, Set to Play Under Captain Rishabh Pant
In a major boost for domestic cricket, star batter Virat Kohli has returned to rigorous training ahead of the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. A viral video from Sunday shows the former India captain sweating it out in the nets at the Reliance Jio Stadium in Alibaug, Mumbai, signaling his readiness for the 50-over tournament.
This move comes as the BCCI has made it mandatory for all national team members to participate in at least two rounds of the List A event. Kohli’s presence in the Delhi squad, led by wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, adds significant star power to the domestic competition and serves as crucial match practice before India’s next international assignment.
Kohli and Pant Headline Strong Delhi Squad
Delhi’s 20-member squad for the opening games of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season has been headlined by the dual inclusion of Virat Kohli and skipper Rishabh Pant. DDCA president Rohan Jaitley confirmed Kohli’s availability on December 2. Pant will lead the side in their Group D matches against Andhra and Gujarat, with all fixtures to be played in Bengaluru starting December 24.
The squad boasts a blend of youth and experience, also featuring veteran pacer Ishant Sharma. Interestingly, Sharma and Kohli made their Delhi debuts together in the 2006 Ranji Trophy.
Strategic Rehearsal Before New Zealand ODIs
For Virat Kohli, this tournament is more than just a mandate; it's a strategic rehearsal. His next international commitment is a three-match ODI series against New Zealand beginning January 11. Kohli is entering the tournament in scintillating form, having smashed two centuries and a fifty in India's recent 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa.
This Vijay Hazare Trophy stint will allow him to fine-tune his game in a competitive environment. His last appearance for Delhi was in a Ranji Trophy match against Railways in January.
A Win for Domestic Cricket
The decision by top stars like Kohli and Pant to participate actively in the Vijay Hazare Trophy is a significant win for the domestic cricket structure. It not only elevates the tournament's profile but also provides young players in the Delhi squad with an unparalleled opportunity to share the dressing room with modern greats.
For fans, it’s a rare chance to see these icons in action on the domestic circuit before they resume national duties.
Delhi Squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26:
Rishabh Pant (c), Virat Kohli, Ishant Sharma, Navdeep Saini, Ayush Badoni, Arpit Rana, Yash Dhull, Sarthak Ranjan, Priyansh Arya, Tejasvi Dahiya, Nitish Rana, Hrithik Shokeen, Harsh Tyagi, Simarjeet Singh, Prince Yadav, Divij Mehra, Ayush Doseja, Vaibhav Kandpal, Rohan Rana.
Stand-by: Anuj Rawat.
The stage is set for an exciting domestic season, with all eyes on how the superstar duo of Kohli and Pant propels Delhi's campaign.
