Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli is expected to make a return to domestic cricket in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, following directions from the BCCI. Representing Delhi, Virat Kohli is likely to take the field at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, marking his first appearance at the venue since the stampede incident earlier this year.
The tournament could also see Kohli reunite with familiar faces, adding extra excitement for fans eager to watch the veteran batter back in domestic action.
Chinnaswamy Stadium Cleared After Difficult Phase
After the Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their maiden IPL title last season, celebrations at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium took a tragic turn. A massive crowd gathered at the venue for victory celebrations, but a stampede followed, leading to strong action against the authorities. In the aftermath, the BCCI took control of the stadium to address safety concerns.
Since then, efforts have been ongoing to ensure the venue is safe and ready to host matches again.
Kohli Set for Comeback at Chinnaswamy
With Venkatesh Prasad taking charge as the newly elected KSCA chief, the Chinnaswamy Stadium has now been cleared to host matches. According to a report by ESPNCricinfo, the Karnataka government has also granted permission for games to resume at the venue.
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As a result, the BCCI will allow the stadium to host Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, paving the way for Virat Kohli’s return. To manage security concerns linked to Kohli’s presence, the KSCA plans to shift Delhi’s matches from Alur to the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Rishabh Pant has also been included in the Delhi squad.
Kohli and Pant are available for the initial matches
Both Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant are expected to be available for the first three matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, they will not play the entire tournament, as they are scheduled to rejoin the Indian team for the ODI series against New Zealand.
Even a short appearance by the two stars is likely to draw huge attention from fans and media alike.
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Limited Fan Entry Under Consideration
On the sidelines of the state assembly session, KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad and vice-president Sujith Somasunder reportedly met Karnataka Chief Minister Siddharamaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and other senior officials.
The discussions appear to have gone well. The KSCA is now exploring the possibility of allowing 2,000 to 3,000 fans into the Chinnaswamy Stadium, particularly for high-profile matches featuring Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.
During the meetings, the new KSCA committee assured the government that it would implement as many safety measures as possible based on the recommendations in Justice John D’Cunha’s report.
Chinnaswamy Eyeing a Return to IPL Action
Hosting Vijay Hazare Trophy matches is seen as the first step toward bringing IPL games back to the iconic venue. The Venkatesh Prasad-led committee is keen to ensure that the Chinnaswamy does not lose its status as the home ground for Virat Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
“We’re on track for the IPL to be back,” an office-bearer privy to the developments told ESPNcricinfo. “To avoid any future incidents, we have put in place precautionary measures. We have granted permission accordingly,” said Deputy CM as well after the meeting on Friday.
With preparations underway and safety measures in focus, fans may soon see top-level cricket return to one of India’s most loved stadiums.
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