New Delhi, 24 December (H.S.): Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli dominated headlines on Wednesday in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025's opening day, smashing stunning centuries in their long-awaited returns to India's premier domestic 50-over competition after extended absences.

Representing Mumbai against Sikkim in Jaipur, Rohit Sharma blazed an aggressive ton off just 62 balls while chasing 236, marking his first appearance in the tournament in seven years and rendering it unforgettable. Unleashing a barrage of fours and sixes from the outset, this marked his 37th List A century—adding to his 33 international tons for India—and propelled him close to 14,000 runs in 50-over cricket.

Meanwhile, Virat Kohli crafted a masterful 83-ball hundred against Andhra Pradesh while pursuing 299, his first Vijay Hazare outing in 15 years showcasing his signature composure and elegance. This 58th List A ton, his third in four innings since the South Africa series, underscored his enduring form.

Kohli's first run etched another milestone: becoming the ninth global player and second Indian after Sachin Tendulkar to reach 16,000 List A runs, over 14,000 amassed post-2008 international debut. He now joins legends like Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara, and Viv Richards in this elite echelon.These explosive returns on Day 1 affirm Rohit and Kohli's class, signaling a major boost for Indian cricket's domestic resurgence.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar