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Virat Kohli’s much-anticipated return to Ranji Trophy cricket ended on a disappointing note as he managed only 6 runs off 15 balls against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. However, former India batter Ambati Rayudu came to Kohli’s defense, demanding that the cricketing legend be given the space and respect he deserves.
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Rayudu Comes to Kohli’s Support
Taking to social media platform X, Rayudu dismissed the need for Kohli to prove himself in domestic cricket, stating, “Right now, Virat Kohli (doesn’t) need Ranji. His technique was good for 81 hundreds, and it will be good going forward as well.”
Despite Kohli’s century in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his dismissals—often falling to edges against pacers—have sparked debates over his Test cricket form. His clean-bowled dismissal against Railways in the Ranji Trophy only intensified scrutiny.
‘The Spark Within Will Ignite on Its Own’
Rayudu, however, insisted that Kohli should be left alone to rediscover his best form naturally, without unnecessary pressure.
“No one (should) force him into forcing himself for anything,” Rayudu wrote. “He needs time to feel good about everything again. The spark within will ignite on its own. Basically, respect (and) believe in him, most importantly leave him alone.”
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Delhi Triumphs Despite Kohli’s Low Score
Despite Kohli’s early dismissal, Delhi had a dominant outing against Railways. The bowlers, led by Navdeep Saini, skittled the opposition for a low total before Ayush Badoni and Sumit Mathur ensured a first-innings lead.
In the second innings, Shivam Sharma’s five-wicket haul sealed an emphatic innings-and-19-run victory for Delhi. Kohli remained the center of attention throughout, with the DDCA honoring him for representing India in over 100 Test matches.
What’s Next for Kohli?
Kohli will now shift his focus to India’s upcoming ODI series against England, starting February 3 in Nagpur, where fans will be eager to see the batting maestro return to his best.
