Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy Return Draws Massive Crowds but Ends in Early Dismissal

The cricket superstar's first domestic red-ball appearance in over a decade captivated fans, though his performance with the bat left them disappointed.

Virat Kohli played his first Ranji Trophy match in 12 years for Delhi, attracting over 15,000 fans to the Arun Jaitley Stadium, an unprecedented turnout for a domestic game.
Despite the hype, Kohli was dismissed for just 6 runs off 15 balls by Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan, shattering his off-stump after hitting a boundary the previous delivery.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) mandated international players to participate in domestic matches following India's poor Test performances, including a 3-1 series loss in Australia.
Fans began queuing as early as 3 AM to witness Kohli's return, with the excitement spilling over into chaotic scenes outside the stadium, including reports of injuries and a stampede-like situation.
Kohli's presence not only boosted attendance but also led to last-minute changes, such as live streaming arrangements and additional security, underscoring his enduring popularity in Indian cricket.