Kohli and Pant Named in Delhi Ranji Trophy Probables List, Unlikely to Play
Star cricketers Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant have once again been included in the 84-member Delhi Ranji Trophy probables list for the upcoming season. Despite their presence on the list, it is unlikely that either will feature in any red-ball matches due to their commitments with the national team and personal schedules.
Kohli, who last represented Delhi in the Ranji Trophy in 2012, and Pant, whose last appearance came before the COVID-19 pandemic, remain key figures in Indian cricket. Their inclusion in the list, however, appears to be more procedural.
A Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official explained, “This is a protocol. They are our registered players, and it is our duty to put their names on the probables list in case they want to play.”
While Kohli and Pant may sit out the season, the exclusion of veteran fast bowler Ishant Sharma has garnered attention. The 100-Test veteran, who no longer features in India’s national plans, has also been absent from recent domestic matches.
His omission from the probables list has sparked speculation about his future in competitive cricket, with some hinting that he may be nearing retirement. However, there are reports that Ishant could make a final appearance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament before the Indian Premier League (IPL) auctions.
Despite the absence of these high-profile names, Delhi’s squad boasts promising talents like Mayank Yadav and Harshit Rana, both of whom have caught the eye of national selectors. Mayank, known for his express pace, made an impression during a brief IPL stint, regularly clocking deliveries in the mid-150 km/h range.
Unfortunately, his season was cut short by an abdominal injury, but he has since fully recovered and resumed intensive training, bowling daily spells of 15 overs at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). His progress will be closely monitored, particularly with the upcoming India A team selection for a tour of Australia.
Rana, another fast-bowling prospect, is also expected to make a case for national selection with a strong performance in the Ranji Trophy season. As the Delhi squad gears up, these young bowlers will be under the spotlight.
Another notable inclusion in the probables list is Sarthak Ranjan, son of Member of Parliament Pappu Yadav, adding an element of political interest to the squad.
As Delhi prepares for the upcoming season, the absence of seasoned players like Kohli, Pant, and Ishant opens the door for a new generation of stars to make their mark on the domestic circuit.
