Virat Kohli fans, especially those in Delhi, have received disappointing news. The India vs Sri Lanka first ODI scheduled for December 13, 2026, is set to be moved away from Delhi because the Arun Jaitley Stadium will not be available to host the match.
The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) has informed the BCCI about the stadium’s unavailability due to major renovation work. The development is particularly emotional for Kohli fans because this could have been one of their final opportunities to watch the Delhi-born superstar represent India at his home ground.
Why the Delhi ODI is set to be shifted
India’s first ODI against Sri Lanka was scheduled to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on December 13. However, renovation work at the venue means the match will need an alternative home.
The work includes relaying the pitches and outfield along with upgrading the drainage system. The DDCA has already informed the BCCI that the stadium will not be available for the international fixture.
The BCCI is yet to officially announce the replacement venue.
Why this match was special for Virat Kohli fans
This was not going to be just another ODI for Delhi cricket fans.
Kohli was born and raised in Delhi and developed his game in the city before becoming one of India’s greatest batters. Arun Jaitley Stadium, formerly known as Feroz Shah Kotla, has a deep connection with his cricket journey. The venue even has a pavilion named after Virat Kohli.
That made the December 13 ODI particularly special. With Kohli now in the final phase of his international career, fans were hoping to see him play for India in Delhi once more.
There is no confirmation that the Sri Lanka ODI would have been Kohli’s final international appearance in Delhi, as his eventual retirement date and India’s future schedules are not confirmed that far ahead. But with no certainty over another India match for Kohli at the venue before the end of his career, the fixture carried huge emotional value.
Delhi fans may still see Kohli during IPL
The good news for Delhi fans is that this does not necessarily mean they have seen Kohli play at Arun Jaitley Stadium for the final time.
As long as Kohli continues playing in the IPL, there can still be opportunities to watch him at the venue when Royal Challengers Bengaluru face Delhi Capitals.
But that is different from watching Kohli walk out at his home ground wearing the Indian jersey.
For thousands of Delhi fans who were looking forward to December 13, that was the real attraction — watching one of Delhi cricket’s greatest players represent India in the city where his remarkable cricket journey began.
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