The ace Indian batter Virat Kohli will not be a part of the match between Delhi and Railways in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy, scheduled on January 6. The 37-year-old had been originally listed to play before getting the call for the Indian team for the ODI series against New Zealand. Kohli had aimed to juggle the domestic cricket commitments with the national team’s preparation during this tournament phase.
Kohli has started the Vijay Hazare Trophy in great style, being part of the team in the first two matches of Delhi. He scored an excellent 131 against Andhra Pradesh and then moved on to a well-constructed 77 against Gujarat, thus leading Delhi to win in both matches. His innings were a testimony to his form and dedication to domestic cricket, but now his attention will be on the national team and international obligations.
Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh confirmed Virat Kohli’s unavailability:
On the eve of the match, Delhi’s coach Sarandeep Singh made it clear that Virat Kohli would not play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Railways. The non-participation of Kohli in Delhi’s last group stage game means that he will be fresh and ready for the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11.
“No, he (Kohli) is not available,” he said to Hindustan Times.
The great player closed the 2025 season in stunning form, hitting scores of 100 and 100 in the first two ODIs against South Africa, followed by 65 not out in the decisive game of the series. He scored a total of 302 runs during the series with an excellent average of 151 and a strike rate of 117.05, which awarded him the Player of the Series title as India triumphed 2-1.
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