Virat Kohli’s Ranji Return: Aadhaar Entry, Extra Security & Last-Minute Broadcast Changes

Virat Kohli’s Ranji Return: The return of Virat Kohli to domestic cricket after 12 years has triggered a series of interesting steps from the administrators and broadcasters. The state association has thrown the game open for free entry to the public, with the only caveat that the fans should bring in their Aadhaar card.

“It’s a free entry. The fans just need to bring their original copy of their Aadhaar card and its photocopy as well. The arrangements for the fans has been made. It will be like any international or an IPL match,” Sharma added.

The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) secretary Ashok Kumar Sharma is expecting a crowd of at least 10,000 on the first day.

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“The Gautam Gambhir Stand will be open for the spectators. The fans can enter from Gate No 16 and 17. Gate No 6 will also be open for the DDCA members and guests. We are expecting a 10,000 crowd for the first day,” Sharma told The Indian Express.

Heightened security

Recognizing the potential security challenges that come with a superstar’s presence, the DDCA has requested additional police forces from the Delhi Police to ensure safety within and around the stadium.

“This is not a normal Ranji Trophy match. Apna Cheeku khel raha hai (Our Cheeku is playing). We have requested the Delhi Police to provide additional personnel for the next four days. We’ll also have our own private security arrangements,” Sharma confirmed.

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Given Kohli’s stature, a large number of fans are expected to turn up.

According to a Hindustan Times report, “The general norm is that the BCCI has one premier match, which is aired both on TV and streaming apps, and for this round, it was Karnataka versus Haryana. The other two games to be live streamed on digital platforms were Punjab vs Bengal at the Eden Gardens and Baroda vs Jammu and Kashmir in Baroda.”

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