“It is Motivating…”: Railways Captain Pratham Singh on Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Return

Cricket lovers across the globe are abuzz with excitement as Virat Kohli gears up for his much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after a staggering 13 years. For fans, this isn’t just a match; it’s a celebration of Kohli’s legacy and a rare opportunity to see the modern-day legend in domestic cricket action.

The Buzz Around Arun Jaitley Stadium

The Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi is set to witness an electrifying atmosphere, with over 10,000 fans expected to fill the stands. For many, watching Kohli play in person is a dream come true. Adding to the excitement, the game will also be telecast live, making it accessible to millions who can’t attend in person. The buzz surrounding this match is unparalleled, showcasing the sheer adoration Kohli commands.

The clash between Delhi and Railways holds significant stakes for both teams. Delhi aims to capitalize on the advantage of having Kohli in their lineup, while Railways is keen on securing six points to stay ahead in the tournament.

Railways’ Captain Pratham Singh’s Perspective

Railways captain Pratham Singh views Kohli’s participation as a motivating factor rather than a challenge. In his own words, “We will be more motivated to perform better because there are a lot of eyes on this game.” With so much at stake, Singh and his team are determined to focus on their strengths while devising strategies to counter Kohli’s brilliance.

“It’s more of an inspiration (that Virat Kohli is playing), and we’ll be more motivated to do better because there will be a lot of eyeballs on the game. He (Virat Kohli) is the legend of the game, so we will just focus upon our strengths. I think if we bowl in the right areas, then it will be a bit tricky for the batsman to score,” Pratham Singh told PTI.

VIDEO | Here's what captain of Railways Ranji Team, Pratham Singh said about their match against Delhi and facing Virat Kohli.

"It's more of an inspiration (that Virat Kohli is playing) and we'll be more motivated to do better because there will be a lot of eyeballs in the game.… pic.twitter.com/9moFNi4KMt

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 28, 2025

Kohli’s Past Record in Ranji Trophy

Virat Kohli’s presence on the field is a game-changer. His mere inclusion in the squad elevates the intensity of the match, drawing attention from fans, experts, and opponents alike. For Railways, it’s a test of their mettle; for Delhi, it’s a boost of confidence.

Kohli’s Ranji Trophy journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In 23 matches, he has amassed 1,574 runs, including five centuries. Kohli last played in the Ranji Trophy in 2012, representing Delhi against Uttar Pradesh. Though more than a decade has passed, fans still remember his grit and determination on the field. His return now promises to rekindle those memories.

Strategies to Counter Kohli

Railways have devised special plans to tackle Kohli’s batting prowess. A key focus is exploiting his struggles with the outside delivery corridor. Captain Pratham Singh emphasized the importance of bowling in the right areas, especially during the early phases of Kohli’s innings.

Kohli’s approach to this game will be closely watched. While he’s a legend in international cricket, adapting to Ranji Trophy conditions after 13 years is no small feat. His experience and versatility, however, make him a formidable opponent.

For young players in both teams, sharing the field with Kohli is a dream come true. His presence is not just inspirational but also educational, offering them a chance to learn from one of the best in the game.