Get all the latest updates and highlights as Virat Kohli returns to domestic cricket for the first time since 2012, turning out for Delhi against Railways at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

The match marks Virat Kohli's return to Ranji Trophy for the first time since 2012, after BCCI's diktat made it mandatory for all India stars to play domestic cricket

Kohli last played a Ranji Trophy match in 2012 and made his debut in November 2006. Meanwhile, he has played 23 matches so far, scoring 1,547 runs and smashing five centuries. According to a report by The Indian Express report, Kohli's fitness was deemed better than that of the entire Delhi team.

Preparations were being made to telecast the game, more stands than usual were being readied for fans, and players on both sides were excited to be part of his first Ranji Trophy game since 2012

A massive crowd gathered outside the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday as the Delhi cricket team took on Railways in their Ranji Trophy encounter. The frenzy, however, was not just for the domestic clash but largely for one man--Virat Kohli.

Ahead of his return to Ranji Trophy, Virat Kohli had an intense training session with the Delhi squad and interacted with the players during the practice session. It was reported that Kohli declined captaincy offer by Delhi selection committee and agreed to play under the leadership of Ayush Badoni.

A wave of excitement swept through Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday morning as fans began to gather at the venue as early as 5 AM, eager to witness the return of Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli to the Ranji Trophy.

While Virat Kohli's return to the Ranji Trophy after over 12 years has garnered all the attention, KL Rahul conducted his business as usual in a low-key manner.