The Delhi Ranji Trophy probables list has been unveiled, featuring a whopping 84 names, including star batters Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant. However, despite their inclusion, both players are unlikely to grace the field for any red-ball games this season. Kohli last played Ranji Trophy for Delhi in 2012, while Pant’s last appearance in a red-ball game for Delhi dates back to the pre-COVID era. A Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) official, speaking on condition of anonymity, explained, “This is a protocol. They are our registered players, and it’s our duty to include their names on the probables list in case they want to play.”
Meanwhile, the absence of veteran pacer Ishant Sharma from the list has fueled speculation about his future. With Ishant no longer part of the national team’s plans, his participation in the Ranji Trophy seems redundant. He didn’t feature in the inaugural Delhi Premier League (DPL) either, leading to questions about his potential availability for the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament, scheduled just before the IPL auctions. A complete retirement from competitive cricket can’t be ruled out.
The list also features Sarthak Ranjan, son of Member of Parliament Pappu Yadav. However, all eyes are on Mayank Yadav, the country’s fastest bowler, who captivated audiences with his blistering pace in the IPL before a debilitating abdominal muscle tear. Mayank, now a BCCI contracted pace bowler, has been diligently working on his fitness at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) for the past five months, bowling at least 15 overs daily in simulated conditions. With his potential selection for the India A team for the upcoming tour of Australia looming, Mayank is set to play for Delhi, making his fitness and performance crucial for his future prospects.
