Media365
NEW DELHI: The Arun Jaitley stadium was abuzz with excitement on Thursday as Virat Kohli made his long-awaited return to domestic red-ball cricket after more than 12 years.
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Among the thousands who turned up to witness the spectacle were Kohli’s brother, Vikas Kohli, his childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, and Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) president, Rohan Jaitley.
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The unmatched aura of the former India captain was on full display as more than 15,000 fans packed the stands – far exceeding DDCA’s initial estimate of 10,000. The electrifying atmosphere resembled an international match rather than a Ranji Trophy fixture.
For Vikas Kohli and Rajkumar Sharma, the moment carried deep emotional significance. Sharma, who played a pivotal role in shaping Kohli’s cricketing journey, watched his protege with pride as he took the field. Vikas, who has closely followed his younger brother’s rise to superstardom, was seen cheering from the stands, soaking in the surreal atmosphere.
The excitement reached its peak when an overzealous fan breached security, sprinted onto the field, and touched Kohli’s feet. The incident occurred in the 12th over of Railways’ innings when Kohli was stationed at second slip. As security personnel rushed in, Kohli, ever composed, gestured for them to handle the fan gently – a testament to his deep connection with his supporters.
Even before the match began, the stadium was surrounded by eager fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their cricketing hero. As Kohli stepped onto the field, thunderous chants of “Kohli, Kohli” reverberated across the stadium, creating a surreal scene rarely witnessed in domestic cricket.
Kohli’s return to Ranji Trophy cricket after more than a decade is not just a momentous occasion for Delhi cricket but a reminder of his enduring legacy and unwavering fan following.
