Ranji Trophy: Pant to play for Delhi, Kohli's availability uncertain
What's the story
Rishabh Pant is all set to return to the Ranji Trophy after a gap of almost seven years.
The wicketkeeper-batsman will play for Delhi in their next match against Saurashtra, starting January 23 in Rajkot.
This was confirmed by Ashok Sharma, the secretary of the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA).
Notably, the wicketkeeper-batter is not a part of India's squad for the upcoming T20I series against England.
Participation doubts
Uncertainty looms over Kohli's participation
The DDCA has not received any official communication from Virat Kohli regarding his availability for the ongoing Ranji Trophy season.
A source from the association stated, "We have not received an official intimation from Virat Kohli on his availability for the Ranji season."
This leaves uncertainty about whether or not he will join Pant in representing Delhi in their upcoming match against Saurashtra.
Team update
DDCA confirms Pant's availability, awaits Kohli's response
Sharma confirmed to PTI that Pant will be part of the team for the next Ranji game.
He said, "Yes, Pant has confirmed his availability for next Ranji game and will join the squad in Rajkot directly."
However, about Kohli's participation, he said while they would like him to play, they haven't yet heard from him.
Participation push
Calls for Test players to participate in Ranji Trophy
Former Indian cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri are among those pushing current Test players, including Rohit Sharma and Kohli, to play the Ranji Trophy.
The call comes after India's series loss in Australia.
Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal are also likely to turn up for their respective state teams, Punjab and Mumbai.
Participation uncertainty
Rohit Sharma's Ranji Trophy participation remains uncertain
India's Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma was spotted attending Mumbai's Ranji Trophy practice camp at the Wankhede Stadium.
However, his participation in upcoming matches still remains unconfirmed.
This comes as an interesting development for cricket fans and indicates his intent to remain active in first-class cricket.
Return speculation
Speculation surrounds Kohli's return to Ranji Trophy
There has been speculation about Kohli returning to the Ranji Trophy to get his red-ball form back.
The DDCA has named its star players in the list of probables, but their inclusion in the final squad is subject to their availability.
This has led to further speculation if at all Kohli will make a comeback in this season's tournament.