Virat Kohli could return to play for Delhi in Vijay Hazare Trophy before 2027 ODI World Cup

Virat Kohli could return to play for Delhi in Vijay Hazare Trophy before 2027 ODI World Cup originally appeared on Cricket News.
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KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Indian superstar Virat Kohli could potentially line up a return to domestic cricket for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.
• DDCA President Rohan Jaitley shut down any doubts about Delhi’s acceptance of Kohli, calling it his home association.
• Kohli’s domestic comeback hinges entirely on his management of international workload.

Virat Kohli could return to play for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy before the 2027 ODI World Cup

With Virat Kohli lifting back-to-back IPL trophies over the last two seasons, there remains just one more thing fans want the Run Machine to lift again: the ODI World Cup. But while his road to the 2027 tournament in Africa is already riddled with international cricket, fans now might get to see him play in the domestic circuit as well.

The veteran batter’s return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi is now officially on the table. For a player now operating exclusively in the 50-over format, dropping down to the state level makes perfect cricketing sense.

Any speculation about whether the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) would welcome him back was quickly dismissed. DDCA President Rohan Jaitley made it clear that Kohli’s place in the state setup is permanent and unquestioned. It is not a matter of if Delhi wants him, but simply when his schedule allows for it.

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DDCA rolls out the red carpet for Virat Kohli’s return

Although he hasn’t played domestic cricket outside of the IPL for nearly 13 years, Kohli remains a fan favourite for Delhi Cricket. It was easy to see that last year, when Kohli gloved up for a Ranji Trophy match for his home association against Railways, and despite scoring just six runs, Arun Jaitley Stadium was packed to see the former India skipper.

Rohan Jaitley understands the situation. When pressed on whether the association would be open to having the Run Machine back this season, Jaitley offered a definitive response. “This is his home association. There is no question of us being open. This state is as much his as it belongs to me,” the DDCA president firmly stated.

The only real roadblock to Kohli donning Delhi colours again is the gruelling international calendar. Trying to squeeze in games for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy while also remaining fit for both the West Indies (3 ODIs) and New Zealand (5 ODIs) tours is tough even for someone like Kohli.

However, Jaitley was quick to point out that Kohli’s loyalty to Delhi cricket has never wavered. “Whenever available, keeping his international commitments and workload management in mind, he definitely and certainly will play for the state again,” Jaitley confirmed, praising the batter’s impeccable commitment.

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Domestic cricket remains the ultimate World Cup testing ground for Kohli

If Kohli does pad up for Delhi, it will be far more than just a nostalgic homecoming. With the 2027 ODI World Cup looming, every single 50-over fixture is vital preparation for the former Indian captain. You cannot afford to lose your edge against high-quality spin and seam when international ODIs are becoming a rarity on the modern calendar.

This is especially important, given that India is scheduled to play only 11 ODIs in the remaining year. Two of these series will be at home, with only the New Zealand series challenging Kohli in overseas conditions. With the IPL taking its own two-month window next year, Kohli will have a chance to bat in front of domestic bowlers in the 50-over format, allowing him to make his case for international outings.

If he does go on to make some cameo innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, it will be a treat for the Delhi fans while simultaneously helping Kohli to move on from the poor run from last year’s Ranji return.

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