Virat Kohli suffers neck injury as BCCI issues strict order to play Ranji Trophy

The suspense over Virat Kohli's return to the Ranji Trophy is almost clear amidst the swirling rumors about his availability for the upcoming matches of Delhi in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25.

Kohli has been named in Delhi’s probable squad for their crucial Ranji clash against Saurashtra on January 23. However, Virat Kohli has reportedly suffered a neck sprain that was severe enough to require him to take an injection, raising doubts about his availability for the Ranji clash in Rajkot.

DDCA awaits update as Virat Kohli battles neck sprain before Saurashtra clash in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

But surprisingly, the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) claimed that the state body has not received any official update on Kohli's condition. However, Virat Kohli is likely to be included in Delhi's squad with "subject to availability."

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A source was quoted as saying by TOI: “Virat Kohli had a neck sprain and even took an injection for the same. There is a possibility of him skipping the first of the two Ranji Trophy games left, and a clear picture could come if the DDCA selectors are given an update.”

On the other hand, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has confirmed that he will play in Delhi's next Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra. However, some DDCA officials are hoping that Pant will play in the final Ranji Trophy 2024-25 game against Railways at home.

Virat Kohli likely to train with Delhi squad in Rajkot

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli’s participation in Delhi's upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25 encounter against Saurashtra remains uncertain, but there are high chances of him being named in the squad for the match. It is being said that Kohli might join the Delhi cricket team in Rajkot and train with them.

The Delhi squad is set to depart on January 20, with two practice sessions scheduled before the match in Rajkot. According to a senior DDCA official, Kohli is likely to be named in the Delhi squad, but with “subject to availability” alongside his name.

However, Kohli’s case will become clearer after a key meeting at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on January 17. This meeting will be held between the men’s senior selection committee and coach Sarandeep Singh, who will finalize the Ranji squad after a net session with the probables.

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Will the BCCI give Virat Kohli any relief after releasing the strict guidelines?

Meanwhile, the BCCI has made it mandatory for all international players to take part in domestic matches to remain eligible for India selection and a central contract. So, it will be interesting to see whether Kohli returns to Ranji cricket after 12 years if he gets clearance.

However, BCCI can give relaxation to those only in "extraordinary circumstances" with approval from Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of the senior selection committee, and head coach Gautam Gambhir. Since Kohli retired from T20I cricket and the ODI series against England is two weeks away, the former Indian skipper is highly likely to be asked to play for Delhi if his neck problem is not that severe, especially give his terrible form with the bat on the recent Australia tour.