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Rishabh Pant (Source:X)
Rishabh Pant is set to play in phase two of the Ranji Trophy 2025 for Delhi. As per reports, his name was included in the probable list. Later, Pant agreed to play in the tournament. However, there is one interesting report that is surfacing around the internet mentioning that Pant was given the captaincy of the team but he refused it.
Currently, Ayush Badoni, the LSG star player, is the captain of the Delhi team. Hence, Pant denied the responsibility and agreed to play under Badoni. Phase two will start on January 22, just before the start of the England series. Since Pant isn't there in the squad, he'll play Ranji Trophy.
Moreover, Virat Kohli's name was also included in the list but there's no confirmation about his availability. BCCI has made it compulsory for all the players to take part in the domestic tournament. Even after that, his participation is still under scrutiny. Another report also suggests that Kohli suffered a neck sprain.
One source, while speaking to the Times of India, said, "Virat Kohli had a neck sprain and even took an injection. There is a possibility of him skipping the first of two Ranji Trophy games left and a clear picture could come out if the DDCA selectors are given an update."
Virat can't be compared to Sachin: Basit Ali
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali urged everyone to not compare Virat Kohli with Sachin Tendulkar in a recent interview. Ali claimed Sachin to be a gentleman who never engaged in a fight with anyone. Also, Kohli started playing cricket after watching Sachin bat, so there's no comparison between them.
"Virat can’t be compared to Sachin. Sachin was on top. Virat started playing cricket after watching Sachin and Sachin started playing after watching Gavaskar. So, Virat can’t be compared to Sachin. Have you ever heard Sachin getting angry with anyone or getting involved in a fight? He was a gentleman and kept a smile on his face all the time, not on the ground but in general," said Basit Ali.