In a rare revelation, former India head coach Ravi Shastri recently shared an interesting story about Virat Kohli and his then-girlfriend Anushka Sharma during the 2014/15 Test series in Australia. The tale sheds light on how the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had a strict policy of only allowing players to be accompanied by their wives on foreign tours – a rule that Shastri helped break for Kohli.
The Request and the Rule
It all began when Virat Kohli, who had just been appointed as the Test captain after MS Dhoni’s surprise retirement from the format, approached Shastri with a request. Kohli wanted to bring Anushka Sharma, his girlfriend at the time, to Australia with him. However, BCCI had a firm rule that only the wives of cricketers were permitted to accompany them on tours. Despite the policy, Kohli sought Shastri’s help, asking, “Can I get my girlfriend in here? The board isn’t allowing it.”
Shastri’s Quick Action
Shastri, who had developed a close rapport with the Indian cricketers, wasted no time. Without hesitating, he made a call to the BCCI, explaining the situation, and successfully convinced the board to make an exception. Anushka Sharma was granted permission to join Kohli in Australia, a gesture that would go on to be remembered by fans as a pivotal moment in their relationship.
Kohli’s Milestone and Gratitude
The impact of Anushka’s presence was evident in Kohli’s performances. In the same series, Kohli scored a remarkable 169 in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, a knock that solidified his reputation as one of the best batsmen in world cricket. After his historic century, Kohli shared a heartfelt message, thanking Anushka for her unwavering support.
“I take pride in performing for my country. The fact that she is here makes it even more special for me,” Kohli said after his memorable knock.
He added, “Anushka has been right by my side through thick and thin. So, she knows everything that goes on behind the scenes. What goes on in the head when you don’t play as well or make a few mistakes. I just want to contribute to the team’s cause, I am not a guy who wants to hang around just for the sake of it.”
The Symbolic Flying Kiss
As Kohli continued to deliver spectacular performances throughout the series, his relationship with Anushka was often displayed in the form of a symbolic flying kiss. This became an iconic gesture, especially after his century in the Boxing Day Test, which mirrored the same emotions that fans witnessed after his 80th international ton in Perth in 2024.
Shastri recalled the scene vividly, saying, “In the first game, in the Boxing Day Test, he got 160 and at the end the scenes were the same. The flying kiss went out just like yesterday. She’s been a big support for him.”
A Moment of Significance
Looking back, Shastri sees this moment as more than just a break from tradition. It was a sign of the emotional bond between Kohli and Anushka and how their relationship played a role in his personal and professional growth. The 2014/15 series became a landmark in both Kohli’s career and his relationship with Anushka, making it a memorable chapter in Indian cricket history.
The decision to allow Anushka to join Virat Kohli on this tour might have seemed like a small one at the time, but it was one that would go on to shape not only Kohli’s cricketing career but also his personal life. It was a testament to Shastri’s support and understanding of Kohli’s emotional needs, and a reminder that sometimes, even the most rigid rules can be bent for the greater good.
This incident marked the beginning of many significant milestones for both Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, with their relationship continuing to be a topic of admiration and fascination for fans across the globe.