Watch: Fan breaches security to touch Virat Kohli's feet in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

Star India batter Virat Kohli returned to the Ranji Trophy after a hiatus of almost 13 years. The legendary batter is a part of the Delhi team for their last Ranji Trophy 2024-25 league game against Railways.

As the former India captain’s arrival became certain, there was fervour among fans as even Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) arranged 10000 extra seats for the spectators. On January 30, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi saw a turnout highly unusual for a Ranji game as spectators flocked the stadium since 5 AM and a massive queue was seen in front of the stadium.

Delhi won the toss and opted to bat first. While Kohli was stationed at the second slip, a fan breached the security and came running towards to the cricketer to touch his feet. The guards were quick to grab the intruder as Kohli was seen requesting security to be easy on the fan.

Also Check: Crowd chaos at Arun Jaitley Stadium upon Virat Kohli's Ranji Trophy return

Here’s the video of the incident: 

Kohli in dire need to get back to form 

After the Delhi game, Kohli will playing against England in the ODI series. The three-match ODI series will provide him with ample preparation for the Champions Trophy 2025. It is worth noting that the 36-year-old has scored just 190 runs in his last nine Test innings and struggled in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, which India lost 3-1.

Meanwhile, Kohli’s Ranji appearance is a mandatory SOP rolled out by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), who have stressed players to get required domestic exposure before international series.

Also Read: BCCI’s 10-Point Policy: No endorsements, no private travel 

The rule is part of other guidelines which has caused stir among the players. The new policy has avoided players to accompany wives and girlfriends on tours. Their indulgence in brand endorsements has also been cut during any ongoing series.