Virat Kohli's 'Captaincy Gesture' Wins Hearts Ahead Of Ranji Trophy Return

The talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli is all set to make a return to Ranji Trophy, for the first time in over 12 years, this Thursday. Kohli, who last featured for Delhi in the domestic white-ball event in 2012, is a part of the Delhi team for the Ranji Trophy match against Railways. A couple of days before the start of the fixture, Kohli was spotted rubbing shoulders with his Delhi teammates in a practice session at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. 

Kohli hit the ground in Kotla on Tuesday morning, as several videos and pictures surfaced on social media. He had already informed the Delhi and District State Association of his intent to train with the boys on Tuesday.

“Kohli informed head coach Sarandeep Singh about his willingness to train with the team. It will be a great experience for the Delhi players if they get to spend so much time with him,” a DDCA official told the Times of India on Monday.

Virat Kohli is playing a circle football game with the Delhi Ranji team pic.twitter.com/94Q5n0lNKg

Virat Kohli is here in the practice session with the Delhi team. pic.twitter.com/IJqhvFate8

#RanjiTrophy

Virat Kohli training at the Arun Jaitley Stadium ahead of Delhi's Ranji match against Railways. 12 years since he last played. pic.twitter.com/pqAhLStTSA

KING KOHLI - THE LEADER OF THE PACK.

- Virat Kohli is Leading from the front with Delhi Ranji team in the practice session today. (PTI). pic.twitter.com/d0iNraFgnt

It has also been reported that Kohli was given the offer of leading the Delhi team in the match against Railways but he declined. With Rishabh Pant not part of the fixture either, Ayush Badoni is set to continue leading the side.

“Pant has been playing first-class cricket since Duleep Trophy in September.