The domestic cricket circuit is about to get a star-studded injection of pure adrenaline. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Vijay Hazare Trophy landscape, the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has confirmed the much-anticipated return of two of India’s biggest stars: Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. But there’s a critical twist—this isn’t a full-season commitment. Their availability is a fleeting gift, a brief window of brilliance before they shift their focus back to the national jersey.
Table of Contents
- The Star-Studded Delhi Squad
- The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Schedule and Delhi’s Campaign
- Why Kohli and Pant’s Availability is So Limited
- The Strategic Impact on Delhi’s Tournament Hopes
- Conclusion: A Short but Potent Spark
- Sources
The Star-Studded Delhi Squad
The DDCA has named a formidable 20-member squad for the opening fixtures, with Rishabh Pant taking the captain’s armband . This is a significant moment for Pant, who is looking to make a strong statement on his comeback trail. Alongside him, the batting legend Virat Kohli is back in the Delhi fold, ready to bring his immense experience and class to the 50-over format . Young pace sensation Harshit Rana completes this trio of big names who are set to make a brief but impactful appearance .
However, in a clear strategic move, the trio of Kohli, Pant, and Rana have been kept out of the official 16-member core squad. This is a direct acknowledgment from the DDCA that their services are only on loan for a very specific, limited period . The focus is on giving the rest of the squad, including vice-captain Ayush Badoni, a chance to build their own identity and momentum in the tournament.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 Schedule and Delhi’s Campaign
The 2025-26 edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy kicks off on December 24, 2025, and is scheduled to run until January 18, 2026 . Delhi, placed in Elite Group D, will be playing their matches in Bengaluru. Their campaign begins with a high-profile clash against Gujarat on December 25, 2025 .
Given this schedule, it’s widely expected that Kohli and Pant will be available for Delhi’s first two or three group stage matches. This provides the team with a massive boost right at the start, allowing them to build a solid foundation in the points table before the star players depart. For fans, this means a golden opportunity to witness these giants of the game in action on the domestic stage, a rare treat in the modern era.
Why Kohli and Pant’s Availability is So Limited
The reason for this limited stint is crystal clear and revolves around the national team’s commitments. The Indian cricket team is scheduled to face New Zealand in a crucial three-match ODI series, with the first game set for January 11, 2026, in Vadodara . The series continues on January 14 in Rajkot and concludes on January 18 in Indore .
As key members of the ODI setup, both Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant are required to join the national camp well in advance of the January 11 start date. This leaves them with a very narrow window to contribute to Delhi’s cause in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Their participation is a testament to their commitment to their home team, but the national duty takes absolute precedence.
The Strategic Impact on Delhi’s Tournament Hopes
This situation presents a fascinating strategic challenge for the Delhi management. On one hand, the presence of Kohli and Pant for the initial matches is a massive morale booster. Their mere presence in the dressing room can elevate the confidence of the entire squad. On the field, their experience and skill can help Delhi secure quick, dominant wins to start their campaign on a high note .
On the other hand, the team must be prepared for a significant transition. After their departure, the leadership and run-scoring burden will fall squarely on the likes of Ayush Badoni and the other core members of the 16-man squad. The team that wins the Vijay Hazare Trophy is often the one with the best squad depth and the ability to perform consistently without relying on its biggest names. Delhi’s success will ultimately hinge on how well they manage this dual-phase campaign: the star-powered launch and the self-reliant main flight.
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts on platforms like Dream11, this creates a dynamic scenario. Selecting Kohli or Pant for Delhi’s first few matches could be a masterstroke, but their value plummets for any fixtures beyond early January.
Conclusion: A Short but Potent Spark
The return of Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant to the Delhi camp for the Vijay Hazare Trophy is more than just a team announcement; it’s a major event for Indian cricket fans. While their availability is strictly limited due to the impending India vs New Zealand ODI series, their impact, however brief, is expected to be profound. It’s a powerful reminder of their roots and a fantastic opportunity for the next generation of Delhi cricketers to learn from the best. The real test for Delhi, however, begins once the stars exit the stage. Can they build on the foundation laid by their icons and mount a serious title challenge? The entire domestic circuit will be watching.
Sources
- Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant included in Delhi’s squad for VHT 2025-26
- Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 Fixtures
- India vs New Zealand ODI Series 2026: Dates and Details
- [INTERNAL_LINK:delhi-cricket-history]
- [INTERNAL_LINK:players-returning-to-domestic-cricket]