Virat Kohli, one of the most iconic figures in cricket, is set to make a highly anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after a hiatus of nearly 12 years. His recent practice session in Mumbai under the watchful eye of former Indian batting coach Sanjay Bangar has created a buzz among fans and cricketing circles alike.
Special Training Session
Kohli was recently spotted practising in Mumbai with Sanjay Bangar, India’s batting coach from 2014 to 2018. The session focused on his off-stump line, a weakness that plagued him in the Border-Gavaskar series. Kohli edged deliveries to the slip cordon or keeper in eight out of his nine innings, highlighting a glaring technical issue. With Bangar’s expertise, Kohli is determined to address these flaws.
The Viral Video
The internet went into a frenzy when videos of Kohli practising with Bangar surfaced. Fans were thrilled to see Kohli working hard to rectify his mistakes. Beyond the practice session, Kohli’s interactions with budding cricketers, signing bats, and engaging with fans showcased his humility and dedication to the game.
https://twitter.com/CricKeeda18/status/1883120176289464721
Under Bangar’s guidance, Kohli achieved some of his career’s most memorable milestones. Between 2014 and 2018, he was virtually unstoppable, scoring double hundreds in Tests and setting benchmarks in ODIs and T20Is. Bangar’s ability to fine-tune Kohli’s game has been instrumental in his rise, and their recent collaboration could reignite Kohli’s golden touch.
Kohli’s Recent Form
In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli’s performance was far from his best. Despite a century in the opening Test at Perth, his subsequent dismissals exposed a vulnerability outside the off-stump. This decline in form was a significant factor in India’s underwhelming performance in Australia. For Kohli, returning to domestic cricket is a step toward rebuilding his confidence and technique.
Ranji Trophy: Why It Matters?
The Ranji Trophy holds a special place in Indian cricket. For Kohli, it’s not just about playing a domestic match; it’s about reconnecting with the roots of his cricketing journey. The tournament provides an excellent platform to refine skills and regain form.
It’s been over a decade since Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy match. His last appearance came in 2012 when he scored 4 and 43 against Uttar Pradesh. Since then, Kohli has been at the forefront of Indian cricket, dominating the international arena across formats. However, his recent struggles in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 have brought him back to domestic cricket to regain his form.
Kohli is rumored to play Delhi’s final group-stage match against Railways. This game could be a turning point for both Kohli and the Delhi team. His experience and leadership might provide the edge Delhi needs, and it’s an opportunity for Kohli to prove his mettle on home soil.
The Off-Stump Conundrum
The off-stump line has been Kohli’s Achilles’ heel in recent times. His practice sessions with Bangar specifically target this area, focusing on improving his judgment and footwork. Addressing this issue will be crucial for Kohli to succeed not just in domestic cricket but also on the international stage.
Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy has reignited hope among fans. They see this as a chance for their hero to regain his form and return to dominating bowlers worldwide. As Kohli gears up for the Ranji Trophy, the cricketing world watches with bated breath. His success in domestic cricket could pave the way for a stellar comeback in international cricket.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
