“Fantastic for Indian Cricket” – Irfan Pathan Lauds Kohli & Rohit’s Return to Domestic Cricket

The return of India’s top stars to the Ranji Trophy excites fans and experts, with Pathan hoping it sets a new trend for future generations.

New Delhi, January 30: Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has hailed the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to domestic cricket, calling it a “fantastic moment for Indian cricket.”

With both stars struggling to meet expectations at the international level, they have opted to return to the Ranji Trophy to rediscover their form.

“It’s great to see youngsters playing with or against players like Virat Kohli & Rohit Sharma in domestic cricket. It wasn’t happening for many years, but it’s happening now. This is fantastic for Indian cricket. Hope the current Indian regulars make it a trend to play domestic cricket,” Pathan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Kohli’s Ranji Comeback After 12 Years Electrifies Fans

🔹 Virat Kohli’s first Ranji Trophy appearance since 2012 for Delhi against Railways drew thousands of fans to Arun Jaitley Stadium.
🔹 The homegrown hero kept the crowd engaged, urging them to cheer louder during the game.
🔹 His presence revitalized interest in domestic cricket, with spectators filling seats usually left vacant.

Mixed Results for India’s Star Batters in Ranji Trophy

🏏 Rohit Sharma (Mumbai vs. J&K)

• Scores: 3 & 28 (First Ranji match since 2015)
• The Indian captain struggled to find form, but his participation was a huge boost for domestic cricket.

🏏 Yashasvi Jaiswal (Mumbai vs. J&K)

• Scores: 4 & 26
• The young southpaw, who shone in Australia, failed to make an impact.

🏏 Shubman Gill (Punjab vs. Karnataka)

• Scored a brilliant 102 off 171 balls with 14 fours and 3 sixes, even as Punjab suffered an innings defeat.
• Gill’s knock stood out, offering some consolation amid a tough match.

A New Trend for Indian Cricket?

While international stars playing domestic cricket was once rare, Pathan and other cricketing experts believe this could set a trend where top Indian players return to Ranji Trophy more frequently to stay in rhythm.

With fans thrilled to see Kohli back in action, could this revive the stature of domestic cricket in India? Only time will tell.