Virat Kohli, the former India captain and one of the modern-day cricket legends, has made an indelible mark in international cricket. However, before he became a household name globally, Kohli’s domestic cricket journey laid the foundation for his illustrious career. The Ranji Trophy, India’s premier domestic competition, was the stage where Kohli showcased his early brilliance.
As Kohli returns to the Ranji Trophy after 13 years, his impressive domestic record continues to be a point of intrigue. Let’s take a deep dive into Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy records, examining his performance season by season, his top scores, and the milestones that have defined his journey in India’s premier domestic competition.
Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Stats: Career Overview
In his 23 Ranji Trophy appearances, Kohli amassed a total of 1,574 runs at an impressive average of 50.77, including five centuries. Known for his consistency and ability to perform under pressure, Kohli’s record is a testament to his early promise as a cricketer. Below is a year-by-year breakdown of his Ranji Trophy career:
2006-07 Season (Debut Year)
- Matches: 6
- Runs: 257
- Average: 36.71
- Centuries: 0
Virat Kohli made his debut for Delhi in the 2006-07 season against Tamil Nadu. Though it wasn’t an ideal start for the young cricketer—scoring just 10 runs in his first match—he was quickly recognized for his aggressive batting style. His first season saw him average a respectable 36.71, which laid the groundwork for what was to come.
2007-08 Season
- Matches: 5
- Runs: 373
- Average: 53.28
- Centuries: 2
The 2007-08 season marked a significant improvement for Kohli, as he scored 373 runs at a robust average of 53.28. This was the season where Kohli truly began to stamp his authority in domestic cricket, with two centuries to his name. His performances earned him increased recognition, with many predicting a bright future in Indian cricket.
2008-09 Season
- Matches: 4
- Runs: 174
- Average: 34.8
- Centuries: 0
In 2008-09, Kohli’s performance dipped slightly. Although he still managed to score valuable runs, his average dropped to 34.8, and he didn’t score a century during this period. Despite the lack of tons, Kohli’s consistency and solid technique were evident, as he continued to refine his game.
2009-10 Season
- Matches: 3
- Runs: 374
- Average: 93.5
- Centuries: 1
Arguably his best season in the Ranji Trophy, the 2009-10 campaign saw Kohli explode onto the domestic cricket scene with 374 runs at an astonishing average of 93.5. Notable for his magnificent 173 against Bengal, which remains his highest score in the Ranji Trophy, Kohli showed his immense potential. Additionally, Kohli contributed with the ball in this match, taking two wickets, further showcasing his all-round skills.
2010-11 Season
- Matches: 4
- Runs: 339
- Average: 56.5
- Centuries: 2
In the 2010-11 season, Kohli was at the peak of his powers. He scored 339 runs at a healthy average of 56.5, including two centuries. By now, Kohli had firmly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket, and his performances in the Ranji Trophy only reinforced that belief.
2012-13 Season
- Matches: 1
- Runs: 57
- Average: 28.5
- Centuries: 0
Kohli’s final season in the Ranji Trophy before he went on to make his mark in international cricket was in 2012-13. However, due to international commitments, he only played a single match in which he scored 57 runs at an average of 28.5. This marked the beginning of his limited participation in domestic cricket.
Virat Kohli’s Top Scores and Centuries in Ranji Trophy
Over the course of his Ranji Trophy career, Kohli accumulated several significant knocks that demonstrated his maturity as a cricketer. Here are some of his standout performances:
- 173 vs Bengal (2009-10)
Kohli’s highest score in the Ranji Trophy came in a match against Bengal at Feroz Shah Kotla in 2009. His match-saving 173 was a display of pure class and determination. - 145 vs Uttar Pradesh (2009)
Another standout performance came against Uttar Pradesh, where Kohli’s 145 played a crucial role in helping Delhi post a competitive total. - 139 vs Tamil Nadu (2010)
Kohli’s 139 against Tamil Nadu was a knock that showed his attacking intent and ability to dominate the bowling attack. - 169 vs Karnataka (2007)
In the 2007 season, Kohli scored a mammoth 169 against Karnataka, further establishing himself as one of the brightest young stars in Indian cricket. - 106 vs Rajasthan (2007)
Kohli’s first century in Ranji came against Rajasthan in 2007, a defining moment in his early career.
Virat Kohli’s Impact on Delhi and Indian Cricket
Kohli’s performances in the Ranji Trophy laid the foundation for his successful transition to international cricket. His ability to score consistently, even under pressure, was a key indicator of his potential. His five centuries in the tournament, including a match-winning knock of 173, are still remembered as some of the finest performances in the competition’s history.
Even though Kohli’s focus shifted to international cricket after 2012, his brief but impactful Ranji career demonstrated his readiness for the challenges of international cricket. Now, after 13 years, Kohli is returning to the domestic scene, and fans eagerly await his much-anticipated return in the 2025 Ranji Trophy match against Railways.
Virat Kohli’s Return to Ranji Trophy: What to Expect?
Virat Kohli will be making his return to the Ranji Trophy on January 30, 2025, when he leads Delhi against Railways in their final group fixture. After a long hiatus from domestic cricket due to international and IPL commitments, this match will be a highly anticipated event for cricket fans. Kohli’s return to domestic cricket marks the end of a long drought for top Indian players in the Ranji Trophy, as many cricketers, including Kohli, have prioritized international fixtures over domestic competitions in recent years.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy career may have been relatively short, but his impact has been immense. His remarkable consistency, ability to score centuries, and leadership qualities on the field were all evident during his domestic career. As he returns to the Ranji Trophy after more than a decade, Kohli’s legacy in domestic cricket remains intact, and cricket fans are hopeful that his return will inspire the next generation of cricketers.
With an illustrious international career already in the bag, Kohli’s Ranji Trophy performances remain a key chapter in his cricketing journey—a testament to his early promise and his rise to the pinnacle of world cricket.
