By Krishnendu Banerjee
Delhi vs Railways match was not on the roster for live-streaming on Jio Cinema or Sports18. But with Virat Kohli playing, the match was made broadcast-ready in just 24 hours.
What was on Virat Kohli's menu during his Ranji Trophy return? That Kohli preferred Chili paneer over Chili chicken and had kadhi chawal during practice had social media abuzz.
A Ranji Trophy match between Delhi and Railways saw an unprecedented turnout. Over 25,000 people filled up three stands at Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Despite the chilly Delhi morning, thousands of fans queued outside the stadium to glimpse Virat Kohli since 3 AM. The queue stretched 2.5 km.
Long queue
Long queue
As thousands of fans gathered outside the Arun Jaitley Stadium, a long traffic jam was created during rush hour in the morning. The traffic jam stretched to almost 3km.
Traffic jam
Traffic jam
A stampede-like situation at Gate 17 led to broken phones, lost shoes, and a damaged police bike, showing the frenzy surrounding Kohli’s presence.
Chants of “Kohli…Kohli” echoed as the superstar took the field, creating an electrifying experience in a Ranji Trophy match where the crowd is usually sparse.
Stadium crowd video
Stadium crowd video
Fielding at slips, Kohli acknowledged fans. He was the orchestra master, waving, cheering and engaging with the enthusiastic crowd throughout the day.
Kohli cheering
Kohli cheering
A fan evaded security and reached Kohli, and clung to his feet before being escorted away. The crowd forced additional deployment of para-military forces for security reasons.
However, Virat Kohli's comeback lasted only 15 deliveries, scoring just 6 runs. Railways pacer Himanshu Sangwan sent Kohli's off-stump flying with a terrific delivery, silencing the entire stadium.
Virat Kohli dismissal
Virat Kohli dismissal
As soon as Virat Kohli was dismissed, fans deserted the stadium. Delhi vs Railways match on Day 2 had around 20,000 crowd but after Kohli was dismissed, the number came down to approximately 2000.
As Himangshu Sangwan celebrated, it did not sit well with Virat Kohli fans. They targeted social media accounts of cricketer Pradeep Sangwan and all those who are also named Himangshu Sangwan. The reason? Railways bowler bowled Virat Kohli out and celebrated.
At the end of Day 2, Delhi & District Cricket Association felicitated Virat Kohli for playing 100 Tests. He is the third Delhi player after Virender Sehwag and Ishant Sharma to play 100 Test matches.
Virat Kohli felicitated
Virat Kohli felicitated