Virat Kohli set for Ranji Return - DDCA calls for Extra Security, 10000 Fans Expected

Virat Kohli is set to make a return to Ranji Trophy in the upcoming match for Delhi, which starts from January 30 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

Kohli, who has not represented Delhi since 2012, will be playing in the upcoming match against Railways.

Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh confirmed that the India star will be commencing his practice from Tuesday (January 28). Kohli will be playing under Ayush Badoni's captaincy.

And ahead of Kohli's elusive return to domestic circuit, the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) has taken multiple measurements to tackle the wave. The Indian stalwart is set to attract a number of spectators into the ground for the match, which has induced DDCA to seek for extra security.

"The Delhi Police will receive a letter from us. We have enhanced our private security, so we have initiated all these arrangements, and we will attempt to ensure there is no inconvenience for the fans when they come on January 30 to see the match," DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma said to PTI.

DDCA expects 10,000 spectators on Day 1

Apart from that, the DDCA is expecting a massive number of crowd for the match. Due to Kohli's presence, a lot of spectators may arrive at the stadium and DDCA will open three gates for the crowd entry. The entry will be free.

"Gate numbers 7, 16, and 15 will be open. Whoever will come to watch will get to see Virat bat; they will see the ball move, and we are fully ready to keep these three gates open. Virat Kohli will be playing Ranji cricket after 12 years; there is a lot of excitement among the spectators. All the new players were excited when it was confirmed that he would play. We expect a capacity of 8,000-10,000 fans in Delhi will turn up to see Virat Kohli because he has a lot of followers," the DDCA secretary added.

Although Kohli will be playing, his India teammate Rishabh Pant won't feature. Pant played Delhi's previous match against Saurashtra but won't take part as selectors told him to opt out for workload management.