Virat Kohli Grand Return to Ranji Trophy Sparks Massive Fan Frenzy
Delhi showcased its deep admiration for Virat Kohli as he made a much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy after over a decade. The excitement was evident at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where thousands gathered early in the morning to catch a glimpse of the cricketing icon. Fans of all ages, from schoolchildren to aspiring cricketers and homemakers, ensured they were present to witness the celebrated batsman in action.
Groups of young students openly admitted to skipping school just to be part of the electrifying atmosphere. As Delhi’s captain, Ayush Badoni, won the toss and opted to field, the decision went largely unnoticed in the overwhelming excitement of Kohli’s presence. The anticipation was palpable, with the stadium resonating with chants of his name, turning a routine Ranji Trophy match into a spectacle.
Among the enthusiastic crowd was a second-grade girl, her eyes filled with admiration for her cricketing hero. A dedicated homemaker, who had arrived at the venue by 6 AM with her child, expressed sheer excitement about the opportunity to see Kohli. Many fans, aware that he wouldn’t be batting immediately, were still eager to watch him field, demonstrating the level of devotion the cricketer commands.
One young fan, visibly thrilled, spoke about Kohli’s recent struggle in the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia, hoping to witness a revival of his legendary form. Expectations soared, with many believing that anything short of a century from Kohli would be disappointing. The turnout for this match, unusual for a domestic game, underscored his influence and status in Indian cricket.
The ‘Gautam Gambhir Stand’ was filled to capacity early on, while the ‘Bishan Bedi Stand’ quickly followed suit, with over 12,000 spectators present at the time of the toss. Enthusiastic cheers of “Kohli, Kohli” could be heard from a distance, reflecting the eagerness of fans who had come solely for him.
Despite Delhi’s decision to bowl first, the crowd remained captivated, cherishing every moment Kohli spent on the field. Stationed at second slip, every movement of his drew loud applause. The enthusiasm reached another level when, during the 12th over, a fervent admirer breached security to touch his feet before being swiftly escorted away. Kohli, understanding the emotions of his supporters, acknowledged the crowd with waves and gestures, making their efforts to be there all the more worthwhile.
While his batting performance remained on hold, Kohli’s mere presence was enough to make the day special for his fans. The stadium, usually reserved for high-profile international games, saw an atmosphere akin to a global tournament, proving once again why Kohli remains one of cricket’s most cherished figures.