Virat Kohli’s Ranji Trophy Return Draws Record 94 Lakh Views on JioCinema

Virat Kohli’s return to the Ranji Trophy after 12 years has rewritten the script for domestic cricket viewership. The Delhi vs. Railways clash at Arun Jaitley Stadium saw an unprecedented crowd surge, forcing organizers to open additional stands.

Online, the hype was equally massive. The match drew a staggering 94 lakh views on JioCinema. This is an unheard-of number for a first-class game.

Also Read: Virat Kohli Engages Fans with ‘Have You Eaten?’ Gesture at Ranji Trophy Clash

The Kohli effect transformed a routine domestic fixture into a grand spectacle, reminiscent of an international showdown.

Massive Crowds Cause Chaos at Entry Gates

The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) anticipated 10,000 spectators. However, the turnout exceeded 12,000. Fans queued up as early as 7 AM to see Kohli play Ranji.

However, crowd control quickly became an issue. Gates 16 and 17 were supposed to be opened. But, Gate 16 remained shut. This led to a stampede-like situation at 8:20 AM.

Fans broke barricades, lost shoes, and struggled for entry as the Bishan Singh Bedi Stand was eventually opened to accommodate the crowd.

Even Delhi Police had to intervene when Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s convoy passed near the stadium.

“I have never seen such scenes for a Ranji Trophy match,” said DDCA secretary Ashok Sharma, amazed by the turnout.

A Roar for the King: Kohli Owns the Atmosphere

Kohli didn’t bat on Day 1. However, he was the center of attention throughout. The crowd even urged Delhi captain Ayush Badoni to let Kohli bowl. They chanted “Kohli ko bowling do” and Badoni smiled.

In one viral moment, Kohli engaged the crowd in a cheering contest. He signalled to different sections to outdo each other in noise levels.

Fan Breaches Security to Touch Kohli’s Feet

The craze reached new heights when a fan broke through security in the 12th over. The supporter sprinted onto the field. He evaded multiple guards and fell at Kohli’s feet.

Security quickly intervened, escorting the fan away. But the moment symbolized Kohli’s immense influence, as even a domestic match felt like a World Cup final.

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