Follow UsVirat Kohli's much-awaited return to the Ranji Trophy is expected to take a setback as the premier Indian batter is believed to have sustained a neck sprain. Delhi are due to play Saurashtra in Rajkot from January 23-26 and are expected to depart for the game on January 20 (Monday).
However, even if Kohli travels with the team, he is expected to sit out, with "subject to availability" written next to his name.
“Virat Kohli has a neck sprain and even took an injection for the same. There is a possibility of him skipping the first of the two Ranji Trophy games left, and a clear picture could come if the DDCA selectors get an update,” TOI quoted a source as saying.
Kohli could still be available for Delhi's final group stage match against Railways at home from January 30 to February 2.
But in what comes as a good news for Delhi, Rishabh Pant has confirmed his availability for the next round of fixtures. As has his India teammate Shubman Gill, who will turn up for Punjab against Karnataka. India skipper Rohit Sharma too was seen practising with the Mumbai side ahead of their match against Jammu & Kashmir.
This comes after India head coach Gautam Gambhir's mandate of players playing domestic cricket to be considered for national selection, following India's 0-3 Test series loss against New Zealand at home followed by a 1-3 defeat at the hands of Australia Down Under.