Shastri says: Kohli asked if I could sneak in my girlfriend; I phoned BCCI

Ravi Shastri recently shared an anecdote about Virat Kohli and his relationship with Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma.

| Updated: 25 November, 2024 6:52 pm IST

Ravi Shastri recently shared an anecdote about Virat Kohli and his relationship with Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma. (Photo Illustration: Swastik Sharma)

NEW DELHI: In a candid and light-hearted moment, former Indian cricket team coach Ravi Shastri recently shared an anecdote about Virat Kohli and his relationship with Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma. During a conversation, Shastri revealed that back in 2015, when Kohli and Sharma were dating and Kohli was still unmarried, the star batsman approached Shastri with a rather unusual request.

According to Shastri, Kohli came to him and asked, “You know only wives are allowed, can I get my girlfriend in here?” Shastri, known for his straight talk, responded positively, saying “Sure,” but immediately realized that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had strict rules regarding players’ partners traveling with the team.

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Shastri, ever the problem-solver, made a call to the board to clarify the situation. As a result, Anushka Sharma was allowed to join Kohli on the tour. This decision, which seemed like a simple gesture of support for the young cricketer, would soon prove to be significant in Kohli’s career.

Virat Kohli blowing a kiss to Anushka Sharma after scoring century in Boxing day test in 2014. (Photo Illustration: Swastik Sharma)

Shastri continued the story, recalling that during the very first Boxing Day Test in which Sharma was present, Kohli scored a magnificent 169 runs. This performance was followed by the iconic moment when Kohli sent a flying kiss to his girlfriend, an image that became one of the most memorable in Indian cricket.

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The bond between Kohli and Sharma has long been a topic of public interest, with their mutual support being evident both on and off the field. Shastri’s revelation highlights the positive influence that Anushka has had on Kohli, especially during some of his toughest moments as a cricketer.

Kohli’s connection with Sharma has often been seen as a source of emotional stability, helping him focus on his game. It is no surprise that the couple’s journey together has garnered so much attention, especially after moments like these, where personal milestones merge with professional achievements. The flying kiss and the 169-run innings are now part of cricketing folklore.