Vijay Hazare Trophy: Virat Kohli Likely to Play Another Vijay Hazare Trophy Match Ahead of New Zealand ODI Series

Star Indian batsman Virat Kohli has been in scintillating form during the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, representing the Delhi team. He has played two matches, demonstrating his batting prowess with a century and a half-century, leading Delhi to victories in both encounters, while now, there's a growing possibility that Kohli might feature in one more match in the tournament before the crucial One Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand commences.

BCCI's Directive and Kohli's Compliance

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had issued a directive to national players, urging them to participate in at least two matches of the domestic 50-over tournament, the Vijay Hazare Trophy, if they were deemed fit. Virat Kohli, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, adhered to this guideline by joining the Delhi squad for the 2025-26 edition of the tournament. His participation wasn't just a formality; he delivered powerful performances, underlining his commitment to domestic. Cricket and the board's vision for player readiness and engagement with the grassroots level of the sport.

Prospect of Another Match

Virat Kohli's batting masterclass in the Vijay Hazare Trophy once. Again reaffirmed his status as one of the world's premier batsmen. In the match against Andhra Pradesh, he crafted a magnificent century, scoring 131 runs off just 101 balls. His innings was studded with 14 boundaries and three towering sixes, playing a pivotal role in Delhi's four-wicket victory, while following this, his bat continued to speak volumes against Gujarat, where he notched up a fluent half-century. He scored 77 runs off 61 deliveries, including 13 fours and one. Six, earning him the 'Player of the Match' award for his impactful contribution. Delhi's triumph in both these matches was a direct testament to Kohli's presence and his match-winning abilities.

The likelihood of Virat Kohli playing another match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy is gaining momentum. Several media reports have suggested that he might take the field for Delhi against Railways in a match scheduled for January 6, while this possibility is further strengthened by the fact that Kohli's jersey and kit are reportedly still with the Delhi team, indicating his continued association and potential availability. While an official confirmation is still awaited, this news has. Certainly generated excitement among cricket enthusiasts and the Delhi team alike.

Preparation for New Zealand ODI Series

The Indian team is slated to play a three-match ODI series against New Zealand, commencing on January 11. Given his current exceptional form, Virat Kohli's selection for this series appears almost certain. It would be incredibly challenging for the selectors to overlook a player performing at such a high level. Playing an additional match in the Vijay Hazare Trophy would serve as an excellent opportunity for Kohli to maintain his rhythm and match fitness just before the international assignment. It would provide him with crucial match practice, ensuring he's. In peak condition for the challenges posed by the New Zealand team.

BCCI's Final Call and Delhi's Aspirations

The ultimate decision regarding Virat Kohli's participation in another Vijay Hazare Trophy match rests with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), while the board will need to weigh the benefits of additional match practice against any potential risks or scheduling conflicts before the international series. Meanwhile, the Delhi team would undoubtedly be eager for Kohli to play one more game, while the presence of a cricketing icon like Kohli not only boosts team morale but also draws significant attention to the match. On top of that, a large number of fans flock to the stadium. To witness him play, which in turn promotes domestic cricket. Prior to his Vijay Hazare stint, Kohli had also performed admirably in the ODI series against South Africa, where he accumulated a total of 302 runs, further solidifying his consistent good form.