Virat Kohli Reconsiders, Set to Play Vijay Hazare Trophy After Talks With Selectors

Virat Kohli reversed his stance after the BCCI pushed back against his public remarks in Ranchi and is set to make his Vijay Hazare Trophy comeback, marking his first appearance in the tournament since he last played against Services back in February 2010.

Virat Kohli has told the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) that he’ll be turning out in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, marking his first appearance in India’s domestic one-day tournament in 15 years. The move comes just days after his Ranchi post-match comments—where he suggested he didn’t need extra preparation before international games—sparked disapproval from the BCCI, prompting him to rethink and commit to the competition.

Kohli’s decision to rethink comes on the heels of his match-winning 135 in the second ODI against South Africa on Sunday. After the game, he explained that he’s never been a strong believer in heavy preparation, stressing that his cricket has always been more about mental strength than endless practice. With nearly two decades of experience behind him, Kohli said he feels confident relying on his mindset and doesn’t see the need for extra match practice when he’s already in a good mental space.