Jaipur, 24 Dec 2025: India’s star cricketer Rohit Sharma has made a much-anticipated return to Indian domestic cricket, headlining the opening fixtures of the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Jaipur this week.
Rohit, who has been a mainstay of the Indian national team for over a decade, walked out to a hero’s welcome at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Tuesday as Mumbai began their campaign against Sikkim. The match marks Sharma’s first appearance in a domestic List A fixture in several years, generating excitement among fans and pundits alike.
Before play began, large crowds of supporters gathered outside the stadium and along nearby streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the former Indian captain. Several fans rushed forward attempting to take selfies with Rohit as he arrived for the match, prompting heightened security intervention to manage the enthusiastic throngs and ensure his safe entry.
Sharma’s inclusion in the Mumbai XI provides a significant boost to his side, as they look to progress deep into the tournament and reclaim domestic prominence. In recent seasons, Rohit’s international commitments limited his participation in domestic competitions, making this appearance especially noteworthy for teammates and local supporters.
Speaking ahead of the game, Rohit said he was “happy to be back” playing domestic cricket and appreciated the strong turnout from Jaipur’s cricket-loving community. The match also served as a statement of intent from Mumbai, with a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent looking to make their mark.
The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier 50-over domestic tournament, features teams from across the country and runs through early January. With several high-profile players participating this season, including Rohit, the competition is expected to draw significant attention from fans and selectors alike.