Virat Kohli Expected to Play in Ranji Trophy Rajkot Clash, Neck Sprain Recovery on Track

As Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja are only seen on opposing sides in the Indian Premier League (IPL), their packed international schedules, which keep them away from domestic cricket, are the reason, it is only when Royal Challengers Bangalore play Chennai Super Kings in the IPL that fans get to watch them go head to head. But a rare opportunity for fans to see these two stars in action in whites.

Kohli and Jadeja could both represent their state teams in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 in the Delhi vs. Saurashtra match. The red ball domestic tournament resumes on January 23 and the game is to be played at the Niranjan Shah Stadium Ground C in Rajkot.

Virat Kohli has not informed the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) about his availability, as per Cricbuzz. However, there is a good chance that he might report to the team in Rajkot and train with them. In any case, if Kohli does travel to Rajkot, it is still a big question mark whether he will actually play in the Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra.

“We will announce the squad tomorrow (January 17), and as of now, we have not heard from Virat,” Ashok Sharma, the DDCA secretary, told to Cricbuzz.

After a demanding two-month tour, the all-rounder chose to spend some time with his family in Australia. A similar situation applies to Ravindra Jadeja. He has returned to India, but he has not yet informed the Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) about his availability for the match.

“There are chances (of him playing), but at this stage, we have not heard from him yet,” an SCA official told to Cricbuzz.

 This could make the Delhi vs Saurashtra match one of the biggest domestic games in years if both Kohli and Jadeja are available. Global attention will be on Kohli, who has not played domestic cricket in over ten years, to see how he performs in the Ranji Trophy during his slump. He will be joined by Rishabh Pant who will captain Delhi and other domestic stars like Jaydev Unadkat and Cheteshwar Pujara in the game.

Will a Neck Injury Keep Virat Kohli Away from Ranji Trophy?

As per the Times of India, Virat Kohli is suffering from a neck sprain and is presently undergoing treatment, including an injection to help him feel better. Until he is fully fit, there is a slight chance he may not play for Delhi in the game against Saurashtra, which starts on January 23 at Rajkot.

“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,” a source told the Times of India.