In a significant development, star batsman Virat Kohli has communicated his availability to the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier domestic one-day competition. This decision marks a notable shift from his recent public comments where he appeared ready to challenge the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) directive for senior players to participate in domestic matches.
From Defiance to Compliance: Kohli's Change of Heart
The move comes just days after Kohli, following a magnificent match-winning century of 135 runs against South Africa in the second ODI in Ranchi on Sunday, November 30, 2025, expressed a philosophical difference with the board's stance. "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 stated after receiving the Player of the Match award.
These remarks did not sit well with the BCCI, which had earlier in November communicated to both Kohli and fellow veteran Rohit Sharma that participation in the Vijay Hazare Trophy was essential for remaining in contention for the national team. A source indicated the board was unimpressed with Kohli's public dismissal of the preparation mandate.
DDCA Confirms Kohli's Participation and Lauds His Passion
DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma confirmed the news, stating that Kohli confirmed his availability on December 2, 2025. "Virat Kohli has confirmed to the DDCA today that he will play the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Though he has nothing to prove, it shows that he still retains passion for the game," Sharma told The Indian Express.
He further emphasized the positive impact of Kohli's decision, noting that his recent century against South Africa proves he remains among the world's best and that his presence will be a major motivation for young cricketers in the Delhi squad. Delhi will begin their tournament campaign against Andhra Pradesh in Alur on December 24.
Context: The Road Back and the Future
This episode unfolds against the backdrop of speculation regarding the future of India's veteran batting stalwarts—Kohli (37) and Rohit (38)—with the next 50-over World Cup scheduled for 2027. Both players returned to ODI cricket last month after a six-month gap for the Australia series and have since found form.
While Rohit Sharma had already informed the Mumbai Cricket Association of his Vijay Hazare Trophy participation, Kohli had kept the decision pending. After initial struggles in Australia with two consecutive ducks, Kohli scored 74 in the final ODI there before his brilliant 135 in Ranchi. Rohit's scores in the same period read 8, 73, 121 not out, and 57.
In his earlier defense, Kohli had pointed to his vast experience of over 300 ODI matches spanning 15-16 years. He argued that rigorous net sessions where he could bat for 90 minutes to two hours non-stop were sufficient markers of readiness. He believed the key was being physically fit, timing the ball well, and, most importantly, being mentally prepared and excited for the games at hand.
By choosing to align with the BCCI's directive and join the Delhi team, Kohli has effectively closed a chapter of potential conflict, reaffirming his commitment to the domestic structure while continuing his international comeback.
