Virat Kohli (Source: AFP)
In a significant development, Virat Kohli is likely to play for Delhi in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. The 2025–26 edition of India’s premier domestic 50-over tournament is scheduled to be held from December 24 to January 18, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly encouraging senior players to take part.
Virat Kohli set to join Delhi squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy
According to a report by the Times of India, once the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa ends on December 6, Virat Kohli is expected to return to London for a short break. However, he is then likely to rejoin the Delhi team in Bengaluru for at least a few matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
However, it is important to note that the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has not yet received official communication, the report also suggests that Kohli finalised most of his schedule during India’s tour of Australia earlier this year.
There is a possibility of minor changes depending on India’s team plans for the New Zealand ODI series starting January 11, but for now, Kohli is expected to participate in the domestic tournament.
Notably, Kohli has not played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy for more than a decade now. However, He did participate in a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi earlier this year.
“Before that, though, Virat is likely to fly back to London after the culmination of the three ODIs vs South Africa but could well link up with the Delhi team in Bengaluru. There hasn’t been any communication with the DDCA in this regard, but India’s No. 3 had more or less sorted his schedule for the rest of the year in Australia itself. There could be an alteration to this plan according to the team’s schedule for the New Zealand ODIs, starting January 11, but Virat could turn up for a few games of VHT, starting December 24,” the report added.
Meanwhile, TOI has also reported that the BCCI is planning a meeting between selectors and the team management after the South Africa series. The discussion will aim to provide clarity on the future ODI roadmap for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon.
