The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has announced its list of probables for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season, and it includes two of India’s cricketing stalwarts, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. This announcement has generated significant excitement among cricket fans, as it marks a potential return to domestic cricket for both players, especially Kohli, who has been absent from the Ranji Trophy for several years.
Virat Kohli’s Potential Return
Kohli’s last appearance in the Ranji Trophy was during the 2012-13 season when he played against Uttar Pradesh. His inclusion in the squad is seen as a significant boost for Delhi’s chances in the tournament. Kohli’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable for the team, although his participation remains uncertain due to his international commitments.
The Ranji Trophy is set to begin on October 11, with Delhi scheduled to play its first match against Chandigarh. However, Kohli will be preparing for India’s Test series against New Zealand, which begins on October 16 in Bengaluru. This overlap in schedules means that Kohli’s participation in the early matches of the Ranji Trophy is doubtful. Nevertheless, there is hope that he might feature in later matches, particularly the fixture against Jharkhand starting on November 13.
Rishabh Pant’s Inclusion
Rishabh Pant has been a key player for Delhi in the past, having played 17 Ranji Trophy matches since his debut in 2015. He made headlines during the 2016-17 season when he scored the fastest century in Ranji Trophy history, smashing a 48-ball hundred against Jharkhand.
Pant’s inclusion in the squad is seen as a significant boost for Delhi. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation due to international commitments, his presence in the squad list has already created a buzz among fans. Pant’s aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of a game make him a valuable asset for any team.
Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant included in probables for Delhi Ranji Trophy team.
I hope they both play atleast 1 match if schedule allows. Delhi have given them so much and it's time to repay it in whatever capacity they can ❤️#ViratKohli𓃵 #RishabhPant pic.twitter.com/2dnGbF5K1y
— Riseup Pant (@riseup_pant17) September 25, 2024
Notable Inclusions and Omissions
The DDCA’s list of 84 probables also includes out-of-favor pacer Navdeep Saini, who has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket. However, veteran pacer Ishant Sharma, who played for Delhi last season, was notably left out of the squad. This omission has sparked speculation about the end of the road for the senior speedster in domestic cricket.
Fitness Test and Preparations
A fitness test for the selected players is scheduled to take place on September 26, 2024. Players currently on international duty are exempt from this fitness test. The DDCA’s statement emphasized the importance of fitness and readiness for the upcoming season, highlighting the rigorous preparations underway to ensure the team’s success.
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