Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy after 12 years comes at a critical juncture in his career. The former India captain has endured a lean patch in Test cricket over the last five years, scoring just 2,028 runs in 39 Tests at an average of 30. With just one century in that period—against Australia in Perth—his struggles have been evident.
Now, as Delhi faces Railways on Thursday, all eyes will be on Kohli. While a single Ranji Trophy match may not define his Test future, a failure against relatively modest opposition could raise serious questions about his place in the longer format.
A Chance to Overcome His Struggles
Kohli’s dismissals have followed a worrying pattern, particularly against deliveries outside off-stump. In his recent tours of Australia, he was dismissed behind the wicket eight times, underlining his technical issues. His numbers further highlight the decline:
- 2023: 10 matches, 417 runs at an average of 24
- 2024: 1 Test, 23 runs
With Delhi out of knockout contention after winning just one of six matches, the match holds little significance for the team but is a major test for Kohli.
Virat Kohli Fined 20% of Match Fees in 4th Test of BGT 2024-25 Reports.
Railways Could Pose a Challenge
Despite Railways not being the strongest opposition, Kohli won’t have it easy. Their bowling attack features Himanshu Sangwan, who has taken 14 wickets in six matches, and Kunal Yadav, who has bagged two consecutive five-wicket hauls against Tamil Nadu and Assam.
With a Ranji record of 1,574 runs in 23 matches at an average of 50, Kohli is expected to dominate. However, failure to notch up a century against Railways could further amplify doubts about his future in Test cricket.
Will Kohli silence his critics with a big knock, or will his struggles continue? All eyes are on Delhi as a defining moment awaits the legendary batter.
