Virat Kohli's highly anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy came to an abrupt end after just 15 deliveries. The Indian cricket superstar stepped onto the field to a resounding ovation from the thousands of fans gathered at Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday. However, the excitement quickly dissipated into stunned silence when Railway's bowler Himanshu Sangwan sent Kohli's off-stump tumbling for a mere 6 runs. A 12-year wait concluded in less than half an hour.

Kohli had just struck a powerful boundary off the previous delivery, sending the ball racing down the ground, which elicited cheers that reached a fever pitch. Coach Sarandeep Singh and Kohli's teammates applauded the impressive shot, embodying the spectacle the audience had come to witness. The initial signs were encouraging. Could this mark Kohli's resurgence? It appeared so—until the very next ball. Kohli aimed to replicate his earlier success with a similar shot, positioning himself well. However, the delivery was not as full, and as Kohli completed his swing, the ball struck his off-stump with a disheartening crack.

Sangwan was understandably elated, having achieved a remarkable feat. At 29 years old, he now has a memorable story to share with future generations. In his 24 First-Class matches, there is likely no more significant wicket than that of Virat Kohli. Although he had briefly lowered his head after the previous delivery, recognizing he had over-pitched, Sangwan quickly refocused as he returned to bowl. The mechanics of his delivery remained consistent—release, line, and swing—yet the length was different. Kohli, deceived by the change, played through the line, leading to his dismissal. While he may have another chance to bat, it seems improbable, especially with captain Ayush Badoni's impressive innings of 99.

Sangwan made their Instagram profile private before bowling today

Sangwan has claimed 79 First-Class wickets thus far, and it is no surprise who occupies the top position on his list. His reaction conveyed much more than what was immediately apparent. He likely anticipated this moment. Before entering the field for Day 2 of the match, fully aware that he would have the opportunity to bowl to Kohli, Sangwan opted to make his public profile private to shield himself from the barrage of abuse and hateful messages. Historically, novice bowlers have endured public backlash, fan outrage, and online trolling whenever they have dismissed one of cricket's icons. Consequently, cognizant of the potential backlash, Sangwan had proactively adjusted his Instagram settings.

Nevertheless, Sangwan's decision to avoid negativity did not extend to everyone. Another individual named 'Himanshu Sangwan' became a victim of mistaken identity, enduring significant abuse and hostility, prompting him to post an Instagram story clarifying, "I am not the cricketer Himanshu Sangwan whom people are confusing me with." Additionally, former fast bowler Pradeep Sangwan, who was once Kohli's teammate in Delhi, also experienced a flood of inappropriate and offensive comments on his Instagram posts.

Read Also: Cricket Fans Target Wrong Player: Pradeep Sangwan Mistaken for Himanshu Sangwan

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