In a significant development, star Indian batsman Virat Kohli has decided to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi, a decision that comes shortly after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly expressed its displeasure with his recent public comments.
From Ranchi Remarks to a Change of Heart
Following his majestic match-winning century of 135 runs against South Africa in Ranchi on December 3, 2025, Kohli had spoken about his preparation philosophy. The 37-year-old, in sublime form with back-to-back ODI hundreds, stated that after 15-20 years of top-level cricket and over 300 ODI games, he prioritised mental readiness over additional match practice.
"I’ve never been a big believer in a lot of preparation, if that makes sense. All my cricket has been mental. As long as I feel good mentally, I can play the game," Kohli had said. He emphasised that for him, being physically fit and mentally excited was sufficient, given his vast experience.
BCCI's Reported Displeasure and the Swift Turnaround
However, these views did not sit well with the country's cricket board. A report in The Indian Express cited a source saying, "Kohli’s comments had not gone down well with the BCCI... He has since seemed to have changed his mind."
This apparent change in stance led to Kohli informing the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) of his availability for the premier domestic 50-over tournament. This marks his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after a gap of 15 years.
Contrast with Rohit and the Road Ahead
While India captain Rohit Sharma had confirmed his participation in the domestic tournament before the South Africa series began, Kohli had kept the decision pending until now. His initial rationale was that extensive net sessions were adequate for a player of his calibre, and he would only seek more game time if he experienced a dip in form.
The sequence of events suggests a quick recalibration. Kohli's decision to now play for Delhi aligns him with the board's apparent emphasis on the importance of domestic cricket, even for established legends. The move is set to provide a massive boost to the Delhi team and the tournament's profile, while also showcasing Kohli's commitment to the game's structure in India.
