• Ravi Shastri recounted how he intervened to allow Virat Kohli's then-girlfriend Anushka Sharma to join him on the 2015 Australia tour.

  • Kohli credited his wife Anushka Sharma as a vital source of support after his 81st international ton.

AUS vs IND [WATCH]: How Ravi Shastri helped Virat Kohli bring Anushka Sharma on the Australia tour?
How Ravi Shastri helped Virat Kohli bring Anushka Sharma on the 2015 Australia tour (Image source: X)

In a light-hearted recounting, former Indian cricket coach Ravi Shastri shared an amusing anecdote about Virat Kohli‘s determination to have his then-girlfriend Anushka Sharma accompany him during the 2014-15 Australia tour. At that time, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had a strict policy allowing only players’ wives to travel with them.

Ravi Shastri’s game-changing decision

Kohli, newly appointed as Test captain, approached Shastri with a hopeful request to Shastri, recognizing the potential for a memorable moment, decided to intervene and made a call to the board to secure Anushka’s presence.

I remember when I was the coach in 2015, he wasn’t married then, he was dating Anushka. He said, ‘only wives are allowed, can I get my girlfriend in here?’ He said no the board isn’t allowing it. So, I made the call. And she came up, she joined him in the very first game, Boxing Day Test, he got 160. The same scenes, the flying kiss like yesterday. So, she is a big support,” Shastri said in the post-match show.

Shastri’s quick thinking paid off during the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Anushka joined Kohli just in time for his spectacular innings of 169 runs. The sight of Kohli blowing kisses to her from the field became an iconic image, symbolizing their supportive relationship. This moment not only marked a significant personal milestone for Kohli but also highlighted Anushka’s role as his steadfast supporter throughout his cricketing journey.

Also WATCH: Wasim Akram and Ravi Shastri’s hilarious discussion over Rishab🃏h Pant’s injury༺ in the Perth Test

Here’s the video:

Anushka Sharma: The ultimate cheerleader of Virat Kohli

Fast forward to the recent Test match in Perth, where Anushka was once again in attendance, cheering for Kohli as he scored his 30th Test century. Her presence has become a source of inspiration for Kohli, who expressed gratitude for her unwavering support through challenging times. “Anushka has been right by my side through thick and thin,” he stated, emphasizing her understanding of the pressures he faces on and off the field.

Kohli’s relationship with Anushka has evolved into a partnership that transcends the boundaries of sport and cinema. Their journey together has been characterized by mutual respect and encouragement. Kohli’s acknowledgment of Anushka’s influence on his performance reflects not only their personal bond but also the importance of having a supportive partner in high-pressure situations.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli celebr🥀ates his 30th ton with fly𝔉ing kisses to Anushka Sharma on Day 3 of Perth Test

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Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on , , and .