Delhi’s Ranji Trophy captain, Ayush Badoni has expressed his excitement over Virat Kohli’s inclusion in the squad, highlighting how the star batsman’s presence has lifted the team’s spirit ahead of their important match against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday.
Badoni shared that the arrival of Kohli has increased the excitement level and has motivated the team. ‘’Everyone is very excited and highly motivated with him on the team. His presence brings a different energy and makes the team more lively,’’ Badoni mentioned. Delhi is eager to capitalize on Kohli’s presence and aims to complete their Ranji Trophy on a strong note. The star cricketer is all set to play his first Ranji match after 12 years and the 36-year-old will play the match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. It is the same stadium where his first-class cricket journey began in November 2006. Kohli has a modest debut and has just scored 10 runs but after that he has turned into India’s one of greatest cricketers, scoring more than 9,000 test runs, 30 centuries, and has broken several records.
‘’I have played against Virat bhaiya in the IPL. It is a privilege that I have led Rishabh and Virat bhaiya in back-to-back matches,’’ Badoni stated to reporters. It is anticipated that the skipper will be leaving his batting slot so that Kohli can bat at his usual position. ‘’He will bat at No-4. He has asked us to be positive and express ourselves confidently”, Badoni added.
Kohli’s comeback to Ranji trophy
Kohli’s return to the venue where it all began will give him a chance to sharpen his skills ahead of the Champions Trophy. Currently positioned at sixth slot in Group D, Delhi has a mixed record with one win and two losses and three draws. Their most recent match saw them suffer a 10-wicket loss to Saurashtra, with Ravindra Jadeja’s stunning performance in the second innings. Delhi will seek Kohli’s guidance to turn things to their favour and end the group stage on a positive note.
(With inputs from ANI)