Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy was cut short on day two of the league-stage match between Delhi and Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. In front of a raucous home crowd, Kohli walked out to the crease amidst thunderous applause, but his stay at the wicket was brief. On just the 15th delivery he faced, the star batter was sent packing by Railways seamer Himanshu Sangwan.

A disastrous return for Virat Kohli in the Ranji Trophy for Delhi

Kohli, known for his dominant batting, was off to a cautious start. Facing an incoming delivery from Sangwan, which pitched slightly fuller on good length, Kohli looked to make an attacking move. However, in an uncharacteristic fashion, he attempted a swipe across the line. The delivery, keeping a fraction low, passed the blade of Kohli’s bat and struck the off-stump, leaving the crowd stunned. Sangwan, on the other hand, erupted in celebration, marking a memorable moment in his career.

The dismissal of one of India’s finest batsmen was a moment of triumph for Himanshu. The fast bowler celebrated fiercely, his emotions reflecting the magnitude of the wicket. Kohli’s wicket was a significant achievement for Sangwan, who had already been showing promising form in domestic cricket. This dismissal served as a reminder of Sangwan’s growing potential as a fast bowler in Indian domestic cricket.

Lesser known facts about Railway’s fast bowler Himanshu Sangwan

1. Early life and background

Sangwan was born on September 2, 1995, in Delhi, India, and grew up in Rajasthan’s Jhunjhunu district. His journey to becoming a professional cricketer started in his hometown, where his fascination with fast bowling began. He was inspired by players such as Pradeep Sangwan, a left-arm pacer from Delhi, who made an impression on him with his aggressive approach to fast bowling in the U19 World Cup 2008 that India won under the leadership of Kohli.

Sangwan’s early years were marked by a passion for the sport, and with encouragement from his parents – his father Surendra Singh Sangwan, a bank manager, and his mother Bhagwan Rati, a teacher – he decided to pursue his dream of playing cricket at a professional level.

2. Struggles and setbacks in Delhi

Despite his early promise as a fast bowler, Sangwan’s path to first-class cricket was anything but smooth. He initially represented Delhi at the U-19 level, playing alongside future international star Rishabh Pant in the 2014-15 season. However, despite his efforts, Sangwan failed to progress system. He faced constant setbacks in his attempts to break into Delhi’s senior team, which left him disillusioned for a time. His dream of playing for his home team seemed distant, forcing him to seek new opportunities elsewhere.

Also WATCH: Himanshu Sangwan’s pumped up celebration after getting Virat Kohli’s wicket goes viral

3. Shift to Haryana and the cricketing wilderness

After his unsuccessful stint with Delhi, Sangwan moved to Haryana in search of better opportunities in 2015. However, even here, he found it difficult to break into the first-class cricket scene. His struggles deepened as he faced more disappointments. His time in Haryana saw him grapple with self-doubt and a lack of proper recognition, eventually leading him into a period of cricketing wilderness. For nearly two years, Sangwan continued to train on his own, with no clear pathway forward in his cricketing career, leaving him questioning whether he would ever make it.

4. Turning point: Job with Indian railways

In a bid to support his cricketing aspirations, Sangwan took up a job as a ticket examiner with the Indian Railways. This job, which he secured in 2016, provided him with much-needed stability, both financially and mentally. It allowed him to focus on cricket while ensuring a steady income. He was stationed at New Delhi station, which gave him the chance to continue his training and pursue his passion. The job proved to be a pivotal turning point in Sangwan’s life, providing him with the time and resources to rediscover his love for the game and take his cricketing career more seriously.

5. Rise through the Railways U-23 team

Sangwan’s fortunes began to change when he represented the Indian Railways U-23 team in the CK Nayudu Trophy 2018. His performances were nothing short of impressive as he finished the season with 37 wickets from seven matches, which earned him significant recognition. His standout performances earned him a place in the Indian Railways senior team for the 2019-20 Ranji Trophy season, marking his debut at the highest level of domestic cricket. His rise through the Railways system was a testament to his determination and ability to thrive despite earlier setbacks.

6. Success in Ranji Trophy and other domestic formats

Sangwan’s Ranji debut came in December 2019, where he was immediately noticed for his pace and aggressive style of bowling. His early performances were marked by wicket-taking ability, as he quickly established himself as one of the key bowlers for Railways. In just 23 first-class matches, he has claimed 77 wickets at an impressive average of 19.92, showcasing his consistency and ability to deliver match-winning performances. His economy rate of 3.02 further highlights his control and effectiveness in tight situations.

In addition to his success in first-class cricket, Sangwan has also proven his worth in other formats. He made his List A debut for Railways in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2019-20 and went on to play in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, making his T20 debut in the same year. These performances in multiple formats helped solidify his reputation as a versatile and reliable bowler.

7. Inspiration from MS Dhoni and the MRF Pace Foundation

Throughout his journey, Sangwan has drawn inspiration from numerous sources, most notably MS Dhoni’s story of rising from humble beginnings to international glory. Dhoni’s rise from being a ticket collector with the Railways to becoming one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket has been a significant influence on Sangwan.

He frequently cites Dhoni’s story as a reminder that anyone, even someone with a simple background like his own, can make it big in cricket. Sangwan also credits the guidance he received at the MRF Pace Foundation, especially from legendary Australian pacer Glenn McGrath, as a turning point in his career. The experience of being mentored by McGrath helped him fine-tune his fast bowling skills, leading to greater success.

Also WATCH: Crowd erupts in ‘Kohli…Kohli…�?chants as Virat Kohli makes his Ranji Trophy return for Delhi at Arun Jaitley Stadium

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Virat Kohli has made a much-awaited return to the Ranji Trophy after nearly 13 years, using Delhi’s crucial clash against Railways as a stepping stone to prepare for the upcoming international events.

The last time Kohli featured in the prestigious domestic tournament was back in 2012, playing under the leadership of Virender Sehwag. His presence has not only infused excitement into Delhi’s campaign but has also reinvigorated fans’ enthusiasm for domestic cricket, even though Delhi faces an uphill battle to qualify for the knockouts.

A hero’s welcome at Arun Jaitley Stadium

The atmosphere at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi is nothing short of electrifying on Thursday, January 30. As Kohli walked onto the field, an enormous roar erupted from the stands, and the stadium reverberated with deafening chants of “Kohli-Kohli!” The intensity of the crowd’s reception showcased the immense adoration and respect fans have for the legendary batter.

Before the fifth over of Railways�?innings commenced, the noise reached a crescendo as Kohli took his position in the slips. The Indian batting maestro, known for his deep connection with the crowd, turned towards the stands and responded with a heartfelt hand gesture, acknowledging their unwavering support. His reaction sent the already animated crowd into a frenzy, elevating the energy inside the stadium.

The sight of Kohli, donned in Delhi’s whites once again after more than a decade, was a nostalgic and emotional moment for many. His mere presence in the Delhi lineup – announced after captain Ayush Badoni won the toss and opted to bowl – has provided a significant morale boost to the team.

Here’s the video:

The fans have come out in huge numbers for the Delhi vs Railways match 👌👌

The Arun Jaitley Stadium is buzzing 🔥#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ http://t.co/IhwXam3F5T pic.twitter.com/ATCyjCAX1Y

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 30, 2025

Virat Kohli’s declining test form and the need for revival

Kohli’s return to first-class cricket couldn’t have come at a more crucial time, as his recent Test performances have been under intense scrutiny. Since 2020, he has played 39 Test matches, amassing 2,028 runs at an average of 30.72, managing only three centuries and nine fifties – a stark contrast to his prime years. His highest score in this period remains 186.

With the ICC Champions Trophy on the horizon and his red-ball form in need of revival, Kohli’s decision to return to domestic cricket signals his intent to regain lost touch. While Delhi’s chances of progressing further in the Ranji Trophy remain slim, for Kohli, this game represents a golden opportunity to fine-tune his batting and prepare for bigger challenges ahead.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli-mania takes over Delhi as fans flock to Arun Jaitley Stadium for Delhi vs Railways Ranji Trophy clash

Delhi’s strong start against the Railways in the Ranji Trophy

The Elite Group D Ranji Trophy clash between Delhi and Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium began with Delhi opting to field first after winning the toss. Railways struggled early in their innings, losing three wickets within the first 15 overs, reaching 45/3 in 14.4 overs at the first drinks break.

Railways got off to a shaky start as Anchit Yadav (7 off 9) was trapped LBW by Siddhant Sharma in just the second over. The troubles compounded when Vivek Singh (0 off 14) failed to get off the mark before Navdeep Saini dismissed him. Captain Suraj Ahuja (14 off 14, 3 fours) looked promising but was caught by Shivam Sharma off Siddhant, leaving Railways in deep trouble at 21/3 within the first six overs.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli gives valuable advice to a young fan ahead of Delhi vs Railways Ranji Trophy clash

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In a display of sheer determination and skill, Mumbai’s all-rounder Shardul Thakur lit up the BKC Ground in Mumbai with a thunderous celebration after scoring a fighting century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season. Facing Jammu & Kashmir, Shardul’s performance was nothing short of heroic, rescuing Mumbai from a precarious position and turning the match in their favor.

Mumbai’s batting collapse and Shardul Thakur’s rescue act

Shardul came to the crease with Mumbai in a spot of bother at 91/6, further reduced to 101/7 by the time he started his innings. The 33-year-old, known for his aggressive batting, showcased his mettle by smashing his second First-Class century off just 105 deliveries, including 15 boundaries. This knock was particularly significant as it was his first since his maiden First-Class ton in the previous Ranji Trophy semifinal against Tamil Nadu, where he had similarly bailed out Mumbai from a collapse.

Shardul’s animated celebration after reaching the triple-figure score

The celebration that followed was as explosive as his innings. After reaching his century with a six over long-on in the 60th over of Mumbai’s second innings, Shardul raised his arms in triumph, thumped his chest, and gestured towards the Mumbai dressing room, a moment captured and shared widely across social media platforms. His celebration was a testament to the relief and joy of overcoming adversity under pressure, reflecting the spirit of a cricketer who thrives in challenging scenarios.

Here is the video:

💯 for Shardul Thakur 🙌🙌

A crucial knock under pressure 👏

The celebrations say it all 👌#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ http://t.co/oYXDhqotjO pic.twitter.com/o3XQIjzRAH

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 24, 2025

Also WATCH: 40-year-old Paras Dogra takes a one-handed screamer to dismiss Ajinkya Rahane in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

Shardul’s heroics fuel hopes for a national comeback

This performance comes at a time when Shardul has been out of the Indian Test and IPL teams, with his last appearance for India being in December 2023 against South Africa. His absence from the IPL 2025 auction had raised questions about his immediate cricketing future, but performances like these in domestic cricket are likely to keep him in the conversation for a national recall.

Mumbai’s strong position at stumps on Day 2

Mumbai, the defending champions, are now better positioned in the match, thanks to Shardul’s heroics alongside Tanush Kotian‘s resilient half-century. At stumps on Day 2, Mumbai’s score stood at 274/7, leading by 188 runs, with Shardul and Kotian unbeaten on 113 and 58, respectively.

Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Rohit Sharma in Mumbai vs J&K Ranji Trophy clash

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Rishabh Pant is known for his dynamic personality and character on the pitch, but time and again he has shown that he is a down to earth figure off the field. A similar incident occurred between him and a group of fans who came to see the star wicket-keeper batter play for Delhi in a Ranji Trophy match against Saurashtra.

A fan pays respect to Rishabh Pant during Ranji Trophy 2024-25 clash

Before the beginning of the match, a number of fans gathered at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium to see a glimpse of the star wicket-keeper batter playing for his domestic side. Pant, acknowledging the fans�?presence approached a group of fans who were anxiously waiting for him. The 27-year-old graciously started giving autographs to the fans who had encircled him. Just then, a young Pant fan tried to touch his feet in a show of respect and love for the ace Indian player. Pant, however, bowed down in front of the fan requesting him to not touch his feet and even folded hands expressing his respect towards the fans�?gesture.

During his interaction with the group fans, he continuously asked them to stay away from the boundary line and kept giving away autographs. Fans, too, cheered the star player and clicked his photographs to capture the special moment in their mobile phones.

Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Rohit Sharma in Mumbai vs J&K Ranji Trophy clash

Here’s the video

A fan touched the feet of Rishabh Pant at Rajkot during Ranji Trophy ♥️

– Pant, an emotion for fans. [Amlesh] pic.twitter.com/Xb2eNQIlPv

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 23, 2025

Delhi suffered a heavy defeat in Pant’s presence

Meanwhile, even the appearance of Pant could not save Delhi from a crushing defeat against Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy. Saurashtra dominated and outperformed the visiting side. The match wrapped up in 2 days after Delhi won the toss and elected to bat first. The visitors could only garner a total of 188 runs as Ravindra Jadeja added another domestic 5-wicket haul to his name during the first innings. In response, Saurashtra made a total of 271 runs in their first innings and exerted pressure on the visitors to commit and make mistakes in the 2nd innings. Saurashtra’s plan worked and Delhi were bowled out for just 94 runs, Jadeja struck once again with the ball, clinching 7 wickets for his side.  giving a total of 12 runs to the home side which they managed to achieve without the loss of a wicket thus winning the match by 10 wickets.

Also Read: J&K pacer Umar Nazir Mir reveals why he refused to celebrate the prized scalp of Mumbai’s Rohit Sharma in Ranji Trophy

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Jammu and Kashmir skipper Paras Dogra pulled off a remarkable one-handed catch to dismiss Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane on Day 2 of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 sixth round match at the Bandra-Kurla Complex in Mumbai.

Paras Dogra’s spectacular one-handed catch sends Ajinkya Rahane packing

Stationed at mid-on during the 27th over, Dogra reacted instantly to a mistimed chip from Rahane, who attempted to work a fuller delivery from pacer Umar Nazir Mir into the cover region.

The ball appeared destined for a safe landing in a vacant area, but Dogra had other plans. Reading the trajectory perfectly, he sprinted to his left and executed a full-length dive, plucking the ball out of thin air with his outstretched left hand. The catch was not only a testament to his sharp reflexes but also highlighted his athleticism and commitment, even at this advanced stage of his career. The effort sent Rahane, who was beginning to settle with 16 runs off 36 balls, back to the pavilion, delivering a critical breakthrough for Jammu and Kashmir. The breathtaking catch left onlookers, teammates, and commentators in awe, cementing Dogra’s status as a reliable leader and a fielding marvel.

Here’s the video:

What. A. Catch 😮

J & K captain Paras Dogra pulls off a sensational one-handed catch to dismiss Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane 🔥#RanjiTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ http://t.co/oYXDhqotjO pic.twitter.com/vAwP5vY28P

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 24, 2025

Also WATCH: Abid Mushtaq plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Rohit Sharma in Mumbai vs J&K Ranji Trophy clash

Mumbai’s batting struggles against Jammu and Kashmir in Ranji Trophy 2025-25 round 6

Mumbai’s batting woes continued throughout the match. After electing to bat first, the hosts managed just 120 runs in their opening innings, with Shardul Thakur contributing a fighting fifty to salvage some respectability. Jammu and Kashmir’s pacers dominated, with Umar Nazir and Yudhvir Singh picking up four wickets each and Auqib Nabi chipping in with two. In their second innings, Mumbai fared no better.

Despite a promising opening stand of 54 runs between Rohit and Yashasvi Jaiswal in the second essay, who scored 28 in second innings, the team struggled to maintain momentum. Rahane’s dismissal further compounded their troubles as the side collapsed to 91 for 6, with only a five-run lead over Jammu and Kashmir. However Shardul, with the help of Tanush Kotian, performed again with the bat and make Mumbai in the competition.

India captain Rohit returned to domestic cricket after nine years, representing Mumbai. While his first innings ended prematurely with just 3 runs, Rohit displayed glimpses of brilliance on Day 2. His composed 28 included three sixes and two boundaries, but a half-century eluded him as he fell to Yudhvir Singh.

Also READ: Here’s how Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others performed on the opening day of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Sixth Round

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In a shocking turn of events during the Ranji Trophy 2024-25, Punjab was bundled out for a mere 55 runs in their first innings against Karnataka at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Thursday, January 23. This dismal total marks Punjab’s lowest score in last 46 years, setting an unwanted record for captain Shubman Gill and his team.

Punjab’s disastrous innings

Punjab’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure, with only two players managing to reach double figures. Gill, who has been struggling for form, was dismissed for just 4 runs off 8 balls, caught behind off the bowling of Abhilash Shetty. His dismissal was part of a disastrous start that saw Punjab reeling at 14/4 early in their innings.The team’s collapse was swift and brutal, with Karnataka’s bowlers exploiting the conditions effectively.

Ramandeep Singh (16) and Mayank Markande (12) displayed some resistance for Punjab, but their 18-run partnership couldn’t prevent a disappointing collapse, with the team bowled out in just 29 overs.

Vasuki Koushik and Shetty spearheaded the Karnataka attack, claiming four and three wickets, respectively. The rest of the bowlers also played their part effectively, ensuring Punjab’s innings ended before it could gather any momentum.

Also READ: Here’s how did Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others performed on the opening day of Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Sixth Round

Lowest total in Ranji Trophy 2024/25 season

• Punjab: 55 all-out vs Karnataka in Bengaluru
• Services: 71 all-out vs Jammu and Kashmir in Kashmir
• Uttarakhand: 71 all-out vs Vidarbha in Dehradun

Lowest totals for Punjab in Ranji Trophy history

• 42 all-out vs Haryana in 1978
• 55 all-out vs Karnataka in 2025
• 59 all-out vs Mumbai in 2012

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s Ranji Trophy comeback for Mumbai ends briefly with 19-ball stay against Jammu and Kashmir

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After a tumultuous year in international cricket, India‘s Test and ODI regulars made their much-anticipated return to domestic cricket in the Round 6 of the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season.

BCCI’s guidelines for Indian international cricketers

The move comes in the wake of heavy criticism following India’s shocking home Test series whitewash against New Zealand and their underwhelming performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia. The pressure was particularly intense on senior players like Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, who were expected to make a strong statement with their performances.

Adding to the intrigue, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently mandated that all Indian internationals not engaged in national duties must participate in domestic cricket to regain form and confidence. However, despite the high expectations, the return of these stars turned out to be a disappointing affair, as they struggled to make an impact in their respective matches.

Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, Shubman Gill and others’ outing in Ranji Trophy 2024-25

1. Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal Fall Cheaply for Mumbai

Rohit, returning to Ranji cricket after nearly a decade, faced immense scrutiny as he walked out to open the innings for Mumbai against Jammu and Kashmir at the Sharad Pawar Academy in Mumbai. However, the Indian skipper’s comeback proved to be a damp squib as he was dismissed for just 3 runs off 19 balls. Rohit, who scored only 31 runs in three Tests in Australia, was clearly out of touch, struggling with his shot selection before gifting a simple catch to the extra-cover fielder.

Jaiswal, who had impressed in the Australia series, also had a forgettable outing. The young left-hander was trapped leg-before-wicket by Auqib Nabi for just 4 runs in the third over of the match. Mumbai’s opening duo faltered within the first six overs, leaving the defending champions in a precarious position.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma’s Ranji Trophy comeback for Mumbai ends briefly with 19-ball stay against Jammu and Kashmir

2. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant Disappoint

Gill, appointed vice-captain for the upcoming England ODI series and ICC Champions Trophy 2025, failed to live up to his billing. Representing Punjab against Karnataka at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Gill opened the innings alongside Prabhsimran Singh but managed only 4 runs off 8 deliveries before edging a delivery to the keeper off Abhilash Shetty.

In Rajkot, Pant’s domestic return was equally disappointing. Representing Delhi against Saurashtra, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter lasted just 10 deliveries before being caught by Prerak Mankad off Dharamendrasinh Jadeja for a solitary run. Pant, who has been under scrutiny for his inconsistent performances, failed to make the most of this opportunity to silence critics.

3. Ravindra Jadeja shows glimpses of brilliance

Jadeja, representing Saurashtra in their clash against Delhi at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, had an eventful yet inconsistent return to first-class cricket. The all-rounder started on a shaky note, conceding nine runs in his opening over to Delhi’s Yash Dhull, who took an aggressive approach. However, Jadeja quickly recovered, showcasing his trademark control and accuracy with the ball.

He managed to pick up two crucial wickets, providing glimpses of his skill and experience. While his bowling performance helped Saurashtra maintain some control, Jadeja’s overall impact was limited, highlighting that he is still working his way back to peak form after his recent international assignments. His return adds depth to Saurashtra’s lineup, but the all-rounder will need more consistency to dominate in domestic cricket.

Also READ: Ranji Trophy Round 6: Broadcast, Live streaming details �?When and where to watch Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant & other players making their domestic comeback

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