Virat Kohli Pushed To Play Vijay Hazare Trophy? Report Suggests Star Batter's Post-Match Comments Irked BCCI!

Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025: Former India captain Virat Kohli will feature in Vijay Hazare Trophy matches representing Delhi after a long hiatus of 15 years. Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Tuesday stated that the star Cricketer confirmed his availability for the 50-over format, marking his return to India’s domestic one-day tournament after a gap of 15 years. The step has been deemed as a change of heart on Kohli's part, as BCCI (Board of Cricket Control in India) reportedly was not pleased with his post-match comments in Ranchi about not needing additional preparation before international matches.

"Virat has confirmed his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He will be playing matches at the Centre of Excellence," DDCA said. Notably, Delhi will play against Andhra Pradesh in Alur on December 24 to kick off their campaign.

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What did Kohli say after his match-winning 135 in Ranchi?

“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,” he had said, adding that the volume of cricket he has played over nearly two decades meant he did not feel the need to seek additional match practice.

“I’ve played 300-odd ODI games and so much cricket over the last 15-16 years. If you can bat an hour and a half, two hours in the nets without taking a break, you’re meeting all the markers. I understand if there’s a dip in form, you look for games and try to get that form back,” Kohli said.

“As long as you’re hitting the ball well and you’re playing good cricket, at this stage with the experience that I have, for me it’s about being physically fit, mentally ready and excited to play the games that I’m playing. Everything else should take care of itself.”

A report in the Indian Express suggested that Kohli's comments after winning the 'player of the match' award triggered the BCCI. The comments did not align with the Board's instructions, which dictate that players play domestic cricket.

Former India captain Rohit Sharma had already informed the Mumbai Cricket Association of his availability.

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Both Kohli and Rohit play only one format after retiring from Tests and T20Is.