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Indian cricket fans are set for a major domestic cricket spectacle this winter. According to information accessed by myKhel, superstars Virat Kohli and
Rishabh Pant are expected to feature in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) beginning December 24-marking a significant return to the 50-over domestic circuit for both players.
The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) released its list of probables for the tournament, naming both Kohli and Pant in the squad. While Pant is likely to be available for the entire event, Kohli's participation will be limited.
A DDCA source told myKhel: "Kohli is likely to play two matches in the VHT, but Pant will be there with the team for the entire competition. "
A Rare Domestic Appearance from Kohli
If confirmed, Kohli's appearance will be a special moment for Delhi cricket fans. The former India captain has not played a domestic 50-over match since 2013, when he featured in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy. His last List-A game for Delhi came even earlier, making this return a major headline in the domestic cricket calendar.
Adding to the excitement is the venue. Delhi's first two matches are scheduled to be held at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru - a ground synonymous with Kohli's legacy as the face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL. With the stadium recently in the news for all the wrong reasons, in the aftermath of the stampede outside it, Kohli's presence is expected to revitalise the atmosphere and draw massive crowds.
If Kohli takes the field, Chinnaswamy is set for a full-house as fans flock to watch one of India's greatest batters in a rare domestic appearance.
Pant Set for Full Tournament, Strengthens Delhi's Core
Unlike Kohli, Rishabh Pant is expected to be available for the entire Vijay Hazare Trophy season. The wicketkeeper-batter last represented Delhi in List-A cricket in 2018.
Pant's full-season availability provides Delhi with not just a dynamic option but also a leader figure in the squad following his inspiring comeback to competitive cricket this year.
Both Kohli and Pant had earlier confirmed their willingness to participate in the tournament, signalling their commitment to supporting Delhi's domestic cricket structure.
Delhi's Fixtures: Bengaluru to Host All Matches
Delhi will play their opening match against Andhra on December 24. Their next fixture will also take place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, potentially marking both players' long-awaited return to the domestic 50-over format.
Delhi's remaining five matches shift to the KSCA's Alur Cricket Ground in Bengaluru, meaning the team will spend the entire preliminary phase in the Karnataka capital.
A Power-Packed Delhi Line-Up?
If both Kohli and Pant make Delhi's playing XI, the team's batting order instantly transforms into one of the strongest in the competition. Their presence also provides invaluable experience to Delhi's younger batters and significantly boosts the team's chances of making a deep run in the tournament.
With Kohli returning after nearly 15 years to domestic white-ball competition and Pant playing his first List-A match in six years, the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025 is shaping into a blockbuster event for Delhi cricket fans. For now, all eyes turn to Bengaluru on December 24.
