Virat Kohli likely to play at Chinnaswamy on VHT return
What's the story
Virat Kohli, the talismanic Indian cricketer, is likely to play some of Delhi's Vijay Hazare Trophy matches at his IPL home ground, Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, as per ESPNcricinfo. The Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) has confirmed Kohli's participation in the tournament. This comes after the Karnataka government permitted competitive matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium for the first time since a tragic stampede incident following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic IPL 2025 win.
Safety scrutiny
Chinnaswamy Stadium's safety concerns and judicial inquiry
The M Chinnaswamy Stadium has been under the scanner since the June stampede incident. A judicial inquiry by the Justice John D'Cunha Commission deemed the stadium unsafe for large events, resulting in Bengaluru losing several fixtures, including Women's World Cup matches. However, the Karnataka Cabinet has now given in-principle approval for matches to resume at the venue, provided strict safety and crowd-management measures are implemented as recommended by this commission.
Restoration efforts
KSCA's efforts to bring cricket back to Chinnaswamy
Newly elected Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president Venkatesh Prasad has been instrumental in bringing cricket back to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. He met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, and other senior officials to discuss this matter. The clearance from these authorities could see Kohli return in domestic colors at the Chinnaswamy Stadium for Delhi's Vijay Hazare Trophy matches against Andhra and Gujarat.
Crowd control
KSCA's plans to manage crowd interest
To handle the expected crowd interest for these matches, the KSCA is mulling allowing 2,000 to 3,000 spectators by opening select stands. This comes after the BCCI mandated that centrally contracted players must play domestic tournaments if their international commitments allow it. Kohli's return will bolster Delhi's batting lineup after his Player of the Series performance in India's ODI series win over South Africa.
Decision
Kohli's form and BCCI's decision
Despite his excellent form in the ODI series against South Africa, where he scored 302 runs at an average of over 100, the BCCI wants Kohli to play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This is to ensure he stays match-fit as India gear up for the 2027 World Cup. Notably, Kohli last played in the Vijay Hazare Trophy during the 2009/10 season. He has played 14 matches in this tournament, scoring 819 runs at an average of 68.25.