Virat Kohli’s domestic comeback story is not over yet, as the star batter is likely to return for one more Vijay Hazare Trophy match for Delhi in early January as a tailored warm-up before the three-match ODI series against New Zealand at home.
Virat Kohli Set To Take New Year’s Break: Report
Kohli fulfilled the BCCI mandate by playing two group-stage matches for Delhi in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. As reported by a senior journalist from Dainik Jagran, the Indian batting superstar left the Delhi camp in Bengaluru immediately after Delhi’s game against Gujarat and will take a New Year’s break.
The journalist suggested that there is a strong possibility that Kohli may return for one more game in the ongoing 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy before India’s ODI series against New Zealand begins on January 11. Delhi’s group match against Railways on January 6 is being seen as the most likely option.
The fact that Virat Kohli’s kit and jersey are still with the Delhi team is a big hint of this planned return to the ongoing 50-over tournament. However, this game also depends on the Indian cricket team’s camp before the New Zealand series.
Kohli’s Dominant Vijay Hazare Comeback
Kohli’s return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after 15 years was nothing short of spectacular. The dashing right-handed batter announced his arrival with a commanding 131 off 113 balls in a massive chase against Andhra Pradesh, followed by a fluent 77 against Gujarat.
Delhi won both games in the tournament, thanks to crucial contributions from the senior batter. These knocks have extended his remarkable streak to six consecutive fifty-plus scores in List A cricket. Earlier, he had smashed two centuries and one fifty in the home ODI series against South Africa.
A Final Boost for Delhi’s VHT Campaign
For the Delhi cricket team, Virat Kohli’s potential return is a massive boost. Having already won back-to-back games, the Indian batting icon’s possible appearance on January 6 against Railways could be pivotal for their knockout stage ambitions.
The Road to the New Zealand Series
This final domestic outing serves as the perfect bridge to international cricket. The New Zealand ODI series will be India’s first major assignment of the year 2026. Virat Kohli’s planned match practice on January 6 would ensure him walking in with perfect preparation.
Vishal Jayswal Shares Emotional Moment After Dismissing Virat Kohli
Gujarat left-arm spinner Vishal Jayswal enjoyed a special moment in the Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Delhi when he dismissed Kohli. After the game, the young bowler shared a couple of photos, including one with Kohli, on Instagram.
He wrote an emotional note about the pride of sharing the field with a modern-day great and the unforgettable feeling of getting such a big wicket.
Jayswal wrote on Instagram, “From watching him dominate world cricket to sharing the same field and taking his wicket is a moment I never imagined would turn into reality. Getting the wicket of Virat Bhai is something I’ll cherish forever. Just grateful for the opportunity, the journey, and everything this beautiful game has given me.”