Return date and opposition revealed

Former Team India skipper Virat Kohli’s return to domestic cricket for Delhi in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 has attracted attention. After putting up two impressive performances, the ace batter is expected to play one more match before focusing on India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Kohli made an impact in Delhi’s opening Vijay Hazare Trophy matches under the captaincy of Rishabh Pant. The right-handed hitter was named player of the game in the second game. For his two appearances in the ongoing domestic 50-over tournament, Kohli earned ₹1.30 lakh, with a match fee of ₹60,000 per match.

Virat Kohli shines with back-to-back match-winning performances for Delhi

Virat Kohli has played back-to-back match-winning performances for Delhi. The 37-year-old was in exceptional form in his first two appearances, scoring 208 runs at a brisk strike rate and once again proving his quality in List A cricket.

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He smashed a century against Andhra at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bangalore on December 24. Chasing an ambitious target of 299, Kohli played a superb knock of 131 off 101 balls. He became the fastest batter to reach 16,000 runs in List A cricket, as Delhi secured a four-wicket victory.

Two days later, Kohli produced another strong performance against Gujarat at the same venue. He reached his half-century in just 29 deliveries. The batter finished with 77 off 61 balls and also made an impact on the field, making two crucial catches.

Delhi then registered a narrow seven-run victory, bowling out Gujarat for 247 after posting 254/9. Kohli was named player of the match for his batting contributions.

Virat Kohli set to play another Vijay Hazare Trophy match for Delhi

According to the Times of India, Virat Kohli is expected to make at least one more appearance for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy despite a tight schedule. He is expected to play Delhi’s match against Railways on January 6, 2026, before joining the Indian team for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Apart from domestic cricket, Kohli has also been in stunning form in international cricket. He recently scored two centuries against South Africa at international level.

In total, Kohli has now registered six scores of 50 or more in the last few matches, including four for India and two for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The right-handed hitter has shown great consistency despite limited match time following his withdrawal from two formats.

Virat Kohli continues his strong form in 50-over cricket

Questions have been raised about Virat Kohli’s place in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, but the senior batter has responded with his performances in the last few matches.

Kohli finished as the top scorer in the recently concluded home ODI series against South Africa. He scored 302 runs in three matches at an average of 151 and a strike rate of 117.05, including two centuries and an unbeaten half-century, with a top score of 135.

Kohli also returned to domestic cricket, using the Vijay Hazare Trophy as preparation ahead of India’s next ODI mission. These matches helped him stay ready for the upcoming three-match home series against New Zealand.

The Indian selectors are yet to officially announce the ODI squad. However, both Kohli and Rohit Sharma are expected to retain their places after recent strong performances for the country and the state. The ODI series against New Zealand will begin on January 11 in Vadodara.