When Virat Kohli requested former head coach Ravi Shastri to let his then-girlfriend Anushka Sharma accompany him on Australia tour

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma’s decade-long bond remains strong, with Anushka being his biggest supporter. Their relationship blends love and respect, and Kohli openly acknowledges her impact on his life.

After India’s triumph over New Zealand in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on March 9, Virat Kohli ran to the stands to hug Anushka Sharma. Even before marriage, he couldn’t imagine playing crucial matches without her support.



During a chat with Fox Cricket, Ravi Shastri recalled his time as Team India’s Director of Cricket during the 2014-15 Australia Tour. He shared that Virat, who was dating Anushka then, requested permission to have her accompany him. At that time, BCCI’s policy only allowed cricketers’ wives on overseas tours, not girlfriends. However, Shastri stepped in, made the necessary call, and ensured Anushka could join Virat.

Ravi's decision made a huge impact. After Anushka joined Virat on the tour, his performance soared. In the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne, he scored a brilliant 160 runs. To celebrate, he sent a flying kiss to Anushka in the stands, showing her unwavering support in his journey.



Nearly a decade later, history repeated itself in November 2024. On Day 3 of the first Test at Optus Stadium, Perth, Virat Kohli scored his 81st international century, securing a strong lead for India against Australia. Celebrating the milestone, he turned to the stands and sent a flying kiss to Anushka.

Now a commentator, Ravi Shastri highlighted the striking similarities between the two moments, emphasizing Anushka’s constant support for Virat. Speaking to Fox Cricket a day after the Perth match, he noted how her presence had always been a source of strength for him, just as it was years ago in Melbourne.
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