Cricket in Delhi has got an immense fillip before the start of the Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2026, as Rishabh Pant has been named as the skipper, and Virat Kohli will play for the team in the initial two matches.
Rishabh Pant Appointed Delhi Captain
The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has officially declared Rishabh Pant as the captain for the Delhi team participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026, scheduled to start from December 24. This selection has given the team much confidence to perform effectively in the highly prestigious one-day domestic competition.
Virat Kohli Available for the first two matches
As earlier reported, Virat Kohli’s name has been included in the 20-member list of players chosen for the Delhi side for the opening two matches. However, his future in the tournament seems uncertain as he may not be able to continue owing to the beginning of India’s OD series on January 11 in Vadodara.
Experienced Bowlers Enhance Delhi Line-up
Delhi’s pace attack looks very strong with the experienced seamers at their disposal:
Ishant Sharma
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Navdeep Sain
Further, Harshit Rana may also add to the team as soon as he can join after India’s T20 series with South Africa, which will end on Friday.
Delhi’s Schedule & Group Information
Tournament: Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026
Group: Group D
Matches: 7 games
Dates: From December 24th till January 8th
Venues
vs Andhra – Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengal
vs Gujarat – Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
It is not yet confirmed whether both Pant and Kohli are taking part in all seven matches.
Ayush Badoni Named Vice-Captain
Young all-rounder Ayush Badoni has been named vice-captain, highlighting Delhi’s focus on grooming future leaders.
List of wicket keepers
Second wicketkeeper: Tejasvi
Reserve wicket-keeper: Anuj Rawat (in case Pant not available)
Powerful Batting Order for Delhi
Delhi’s batting unit for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2026 includes a balanced mix of youth and experience:
Virat Kohli
Yash Dhull
Priyansh
Arpit Rana
Nitish Rana
Sarthak Ran
Divij Mehra
Ayush Dose
Bowling and All Rounders
Pace Bowlers
Ishant Sharma
Navdeep Saini
Simarjeet
Prince Yadav
Spin Bowlers
Rituraj Sing
Harsh Tyagi
Vaibhav
Rohan Rana
Delhi Squad for first two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches in 2026
Delhi’s
Rishabh Pant (Captain)
Ayush Badoni (Vice Captain)
Virat Kohli
Arpit Rana
Yash Dhull
Sarthak Ranjan
Priyansh Arya
Tejasvi Singh (W)
Nitish Rana
Rishabh Pant
Harsh Tyagi
Simarjeet Singh
Prince Yadav
Divij Mehra
Ayush Doseja
Vaibhav Kandpal
Rohan Rana
Ishant Sharma
Navdeep Saini
Standby Wicketkeeper: Anuj Rawat
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