Ranji Trophy : Virat Kohli has been named in Delhi’s 84-member probable squad for the upcoming 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, sparking excitement among fans about his potential return to domestic cricket. However, while the star batsman’s inclusion has generated buzz, seasoned fast bowler Ishant Sharma has been excluded from the list, signaling a possible shift in his cricketing career.

Let’s have a look into more details: Ranji Trophy

Kohli’s Return to Delhi’s Ranji Squad

This marks the first time since the 2019-20 season that Kohli has been included in Delhi’s Ranji Trophy squad. The former Indian captain has not played in the tournament since the 2012-13 season, making his possible return a significant development. Despite this, Kohli is unlikely to feature in the opening matches of the Ranji Trophy due to his ongoing international commitments with Team India.

Delhi’s Ranji Trophy campaign is set to kick off on October 11, but with Kohli engaged in international series preparations, he will likely miss the initial games. However, his potential participation in the second leg of the tournament in early 2025 offers a glimmer of hope for fans eager to see the cricketing icon back in domestic action.

Ishant Sharma’s Omission: What Does It Mean?

In contrast to Kohli’s inclusion, Ishant Sharma’s exclusion has raised eyebrows. The veteran pacer, who has been a staple of Delhi cricket for years, is conspicuously missing from the list. Ishant, a 100-Test veteran, played for Delhi in the previous season, but his omission this time could indicate a gradual shift away from first class cricket as he no longer figures in India’s national plans.

Rumors about a possible retirement for Ishant have circulated, but there has been no official word from the player himself. His absence from both Delhi’s Ranji squad and the recently concluded Delhi Premier League suggests that his career could be winding down, at least in the longer format of the game.

Rishabh Pant and Other Key Names

Apart from Kohli, another star name on Delhi’s probable list is wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant. Like Kohli, Pant’s involvement in the Ranji Trophy remains uncertain due to his international commitments. Pant last played in the domestic tournament pre COVID and has since been a key figure for India in all formats of the game.

Delhi’s squad also includes several promising talents such as Mayank Yadav, whose fiery pace in the IPL caught the selectors’ attention. With young players like him, Harshit Rana, and Yash Dhull in the mix, Delhi’s squad is a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging stars.

Will Kohli Play for Delhi Again?

Though Kohli’s inclusion is a promising sign for Delhi’s Ranji Trophy prospects, his international schedule will play a major role in determining if he actually dons the Delhi cap this season. The second leg of the Ranji Trophy, scheduled from January 23 to February 2, 2025, coincides with a period where Kohli might be available, potentially paving the way for his much anticipated return.

However, much will depend on the Indian cricket board’s stance and Kohli’s own decision, especially with the Test series against New Zealand and the Border Gavaskar Trophy scheduled around the same time.