Indian batters have faced a challenging run in Test cricket recently, struggling against quality bowling attacks. The decline began during the New Zealand series, where they appeared vulnerable against the Kiwi spinners. The trend continued in Australia, where their shot selection and overall approach drew sharp criticism from former cricketers and pundits. Virat Kohli, despite scoring a century in Perth, struggled with balls outside the off stump, raising concerns about his form.

With the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season resuming on January 23, many former players have urged Indian batters to participate in domestic cricket to regain confidence and form. However, reports suggest that Kohli is dealing with a neck sprain, which could prevent him from representing Delhi in the second leg of the tournament.

“Virat Kohli had 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. A clear picture will emerge once the DDCA selectors are updated,” a source told The Times of India.

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently introduced a new policy emphasizing the importance of domestic cricket for national team selection. The policy mandates international players to participate in domestic tournaments, linking their eligibility for national selection and central contracts to their involvement.

🚨 VIRAT KOHLI SET TO JOIN DELHI RANJI TEAM IN RAJKOT 🚨

– Virat Kohli is likely to join the Delhi Ranji Team in Rajkot to train with them. (Cricbuzz). pic.twitter.com/XxLgaCR1mS

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) January 17, 2025

“Participation in domestic matches is mandatory for players to remain eligible for national selection and central contracts. This ensures players stay connected to the domestic ecosystem, maintain match fitness, and inspire emerging talents by competing alongside them,” the policy states.

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This directive aims to strengthen India’s domestic structure and foster talent development while keeping senior players match-ready. The next few weeks will reveal how Kohli and others respond to this mandate and prepare for upcoming international assignments.