Delhi Premier League's (DPL) inaugural edition gave Indian Premier League (IPL) a couple of rising stars in the form of Punjab Kings (PBKS) opener Priyansh Arya, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) mystery spinner Digvesh Rathi. The DPL 2025 will feature the likes of Nitish Rana and Harshit Rana as well. A few days after the draft, Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) chief Rohan Jaitley expressed his happinesss on DPL players making it big at the IPL.
"There’s a sense of contentment. We are very content because the desired result has been achieved and when you have players who are going up to the national arena and at national event and performing, then you’re certainly doing something right to begin with," Jaitley told News18.
The DPL 2025 will also feature veteran bowler Ishant Sharma and Rishabh Pant if the latter's schedule alights with the league. Jaitley was asked whether Delhi-born Virat Kohli will play in the league. The 36-year-old said that he would be ecstatic if Kohli graces the league with his presence but it is unlikely.
"We would be the happiest if he participates, but for a for a person of his stature, mentorship and guidance to younger cricketers is far more important. And I am sure he is very much involved in Delhi cricket as he was earlier on. There is no distinction and he is there for daily cricket whenever required," he said.
Kohli's last first-class game
Earlier this year, Kohli had played his last red-ball match at this homeground, Arun Jaitley Stadium. In the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 clash between Delhi and Railways, Kohli made his return to the country's premier first class tournament after over a decade. He was dismissed for a single-digit score by Himanshu Sangwan who picked up a four-wicket haul in the innings. That was Kohli's last red-ball appearance before retiring from Tests as Delhi won by an innings and 19 runs.
Kohli's recent public appearances and long break from international cricket
Kohli was recently seen at Novak Djokovic's Round of 16 game against Alex de Minaur. Also, he was present at Yuvraj Singh's 'YouWeCan' charity event in London where he opened about his decision to retire in a witty manner. Kohli is unlikely to return to action until India's tour of England where they will play three ODIs as well.