Virat Kohli: Ignored by DDCA Selectors in Junior Days to Last Ranji Trophy Appearance, Return of Kohli is Very Emotional | Opinion

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Forget all the cricketing action taking place around the world at this point of time. From today, at the Ferozeshah Kotla, which is the second-oldest stadium in India, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli.

Eight years ago, when the stadium was renamed after former Union Minister Arun Jaitley, who also headed the DDCA prior to renovation for the 2011 ICC World Cup, it was an ugly sight.

Even as the stadium renaming took place and protests from Late Bishan Bedi were pronounced, one thing which the DDCA ensured was the ground will still be called Ferozeshah Kotla.

Anyone who has visited this historic venue will immediately say this is one of the 'worst stadia' when compared to the refurbished and spanking venues like the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad or the new ones which have come up on the outskirts of Nagpur, Hyderabad and even Rajkot.

Never mind, in terms of location, the Delhi main venue is truly historic. There has always been a lazy old-world charm, with the Kotla fort ramparts so close to the stadium. For anyone who knows the history of Delhi, or Delhi 6, going by the correct postal pin code, this area is rich, steeped in history.

Cricket fans have read reams and seen videos about King Virat Kohli returning to the stadium which brought him name and fame. Not many would know, when Kohli wanted to play junior cricket for Delhi, even he faced selection politics selection.

This was confirmed to MyKhel by former DDCA treasurer Dr Narinder Dhruv Batra, who was also the former IOA President and FIH President. Dr Batra had shared with this writer how many years ago, before Kohli become a legend, the DDCA selection politics did not even spare Virat Kohli. For the record, Dr Batra was very close to Arun Jaitely. Today, son Rohan Jaitley is the DDCA President.

Just to jog the readers' memory, 'Cheeku' did not need any 'sifarish' as they say in Delhi lingo to get selected. Kohli's talent, passion and work ethic has been written about over and over again.

Even now, over the last few days, he has been showing up at the DDCA well on time. It is discipline, it is dedication and it is commitment. If you are a pessimist and still talk of something as stupid as 'will Virat Kohli fail outside the off-stump,' then don't come to the Kotla. Stay at home and watch the match on TV.

There are stands named after legends who served Delhi cricket and went on to excel for India, Gautam Gambhir included. Virat Kohli, too, has a stand named after him. So much for legacy, which is defined by not just runs and tons.

When Virat Kohli 'flopped' in the final Test in Australia, so many Aussies got emotional. This was, perhaps, the last time he was playing Down Under, Test cricket. Likewise, nobody pressurised Kohli to play this Ranji match against Railways. He is showing up on his own.

Indeed, there is a sense of euphoria a man who has brought cricket fans joy around the world will be seen in action. Many people have already got a glimpse of Kohli at practice, throwdowns and how he has motivated junior players from the Delhi side.

The dressing room chatter has already made even Delhi captain Ayush Badoni a Virat Kohli fan. His last appearance, in all probability, for Delhi, in a Ranji match has peaked on the emotional quotient. Every fan who goes to watch Kohli will have his own story to share on social media if they can catch a snap of his.

As for the Kohli trolls, they will abound. They exist in media as well as social media, for, they are ignorant. Some have sold their souls for 'more views.' Never mind, Kohli knows each one of them so well. King Kohli is in Delhi for a farewell of sorts in Ranji Trophy.

Appreciate it, not get caustic. After all, when Kohli resurfaces in New Delhi at the same venue for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, he will be in different colours against Delhi Capitals.