India batting maestro Virat Kohli is reportedly nursing a neck sprain, raising concerns over his participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
The reports suggest that the former captain has been struggling with this issue since the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 against Australia. According to sources, the 36-year-old required an injection to manage the discomfort.
While Kohli was gearing up for a possible return to first-class cricket in Delhi’s Ranji Trophy campaign, this setback has cast a shadow over his availability.
The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has yet to receive an official update regarding his fitness or participation in the match against Saurashtra, set to begin on January 23 in Rajkot.
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A DDCA source revealed, “Virat Kohli had a neck sprain and even took an injection for the same.” However, clarity on his fitness is still awaited, leaving fans and selectors in suspense.
The Ranji Trophy offers Kohli a platform to regain form after a tough Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, where he managed only 190 runs across five matches.
His domestic stint was also seen as vital preparation ahead of India’s ODI series against England, which kicks off on February 6, and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Delhi’s Ranji schedule features two crucial group-stage games, against Saurashtra and Railways, which could have been key for Kohli’s rhythm. However, reports suggest he might skip the first game and join the squad only for the second, depending on his recovery.
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