India’s cricket fans were in for a shock when Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket. Kohli’s cricketing journey was remarkable, and his wife Anushka Sharma was a constant source of support.
How Anushka Backed Virat
Ravi Shastri, former Indian coach, revealed that during the 2014-15 Australia tour, Kohli wanted Anushka to accompany him. At the time, BCCI rules only allowed wives, not girlfriends, to join the team. Shastri intervened, advocating for Kohli, and eventually, Anushka was permitted to join him.
This move paid off as Kohli performed exceptionally well, scoring 160 runs in the Melbourne Test. Anushka’s presence seemed to boost his confidence, and he credited her support for his success.
Anushka once described Kohli as a different person off the field. In an interview with Filmfare, she said, “I married my best friend… He’s a good person. When we’re together, the world doesn’t exist.” She highlighted the contrast between his aggressive on-field persona and calm demeanor off the field.
Virat and Anushka’s Relationship
The couple met in 2013 during an ad shoot and gradually grew closer. They tied the knot on December 11, 2017. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Vamika, on January 11, 2021, followed by a son, Aakay, on February 15.
Kohli’s retirement announcement came as a surprise to fans. In his statement, he reflected on his 14-year Test cricket journey, acknowledging the lessons and growth it brought him. He expressed gratitude for the experiences and the opportunities the sport had provided.
On May 12, Kohli took to social media to share his decision, stating, “I’ve given it my all, and the game has given me so much more in return than I ever could have imagined.” This marked the end of an era for Indian cricket, with fans and fellow players paying tribute to Kohli’s remarkable career.