"Do you even know?" Ravichandran Ashwin slams comment on Virat Kohli’s return to Ranji Trophy

Published - 02 Feb 2025, 11:24 AM | Updated - 02 Feb 2025, 11:33 AM

Virat Kohli Ravichandran Ashwin
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Former Team India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin hailed former teammate Virat Kohli following his return to the Ranji Trophy after a gap of 12 years. However, Ravichandran Ashwin criticized a tweet that referred to the tournament as "blessed" due to Virat Kohli's presence in the match against Railways.

Virat Kohli returned to the domestic first-class tournament but was dismissed for 6 runs off 15 balls at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan picked up his wicket in the match. Delhi secured an impressive victory by an innings and 19 runs in the final round of the season.

Virat Kohli Is Extremely Motivated - Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin called Virat Kohli's return to the Ranji Trophy a great move for Indian cricket. Ashwin stated that Kohli is highly motivated and still has much to contribute to Test cricket. He also emphasized that large crowds should be there for every Ranji Trophy match.

"It's a great thing when it comes to Virat Kohli. He is extremely motivated. I know that. His intention is to play Test cricket and do well. I actually think he has a lot left in the tank. But all said and done, the crowd that turned up, it was great. Such crowds should be there for every Ranji Trophy match," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel 'Ash Ki Baat'.

I Saw One Tweet Saying 'Ranji Trophy Is Blessed' - Ravichandran Ashwin

Ashwin defended the Ranji Trophy after some fans called it 'blessed' due to Virat Kohli's return. He highlighted the tournament's rich history and its contribution to Indian cricket, adding that legends like Sachin Tendulkar regularly played in it.

"I saw one tweet saying 'Ranji Trophy is blessed'. I would just say, pay some attention. Do you even know the history of the Ranji Trophy? It has been going on for so many years. It has been a premier tournament," said Ashwin.

"Sachin Tendulkar, who is a legendary cricketer, used to play the Ranji Trophy at all times. Players benefit from playing in the tournament. For cricket, players are not important, but for players, cricket is very important," he added.

Himanshu Sangwan Delivered a Phenomenal Ball - Ravichandran Ashwin

Himanshu Sangwan ruined Kohli's Ranji Trophy comeback with a superb delivery that shattered his off-stump. Ravichandran Ashwin called Sangwan a "gold-dust performer" and highlighted the class of the delivery. Ashwin also noted that Kohli needed time in the middle to adjust to the pace.

"Himanshu Sangwan delivered a phenomenal ball. He is not an ordinary Ranji Trophy bowler. He is a tested performer. Sangwan is a gold-dust performer. He bowled an exceptional delivery. There was a gap between the pad and the bat, it was a class delivery. The ball deserved a wicket," said Ashwin.

"I saw him (Virat Kohli) batting. His bat was coming down a little faster. Sometimes, you have to adjust to the speed. When you face 140-145kmph bowlers regularly, you need to adjust to the pace. Time in the middle, nothing can beat it," he added.

Virat Kohli will make his return to international cricket in India's upcoming three-match ODI series against England, starting on February 6 in Nagpur. Following the series, the focus will shift to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where Kohli's stellar record in 50-over cricket will be crucial for India's success.

Also read: Nathan Lyon surpasses Ravichandran Ashwin, Shane Warne; achieves historic WTC milestone

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