"Can I Get My Girlfriend ..?" Ravi Shastri Recalls Virat Kohli's Request for Anushka Sharma in 2014-15 Tour
Ravi Shastri Reveals an Untold Story of Virat Kohli’s Memorable Boxing Day Test in Australia

Asela MadhusankaEditor
Posted - 2024-11-25T17:15:35+06:00
Updated - 2024-11-25T17:15:35+06:00
In a recent interview, former India National Cricket Team head coach Ravi Shastri shared a humorous and untold story about Virat Kohli from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2014-15. The anecdote involves Kohli's request to bring his then-girlfriend, now wife, Anushka Sharma, to Australia during the tour. Shastri recounted how the situation played out and how Kohli delivered a stellar performance in the Boxing Day Test right after Anushka's arrival.
Shastri, speaking to Fox Cricket, recalled how Kohli approached him with an unusual request during the 2014-15 Australia tour. At that time, only the players' wives were permitted to accompany them on tour, but Kohli, who was dating Anushka Sharma, sought an exception.
"You know, I remember when I was the coach in 2015. He wasn't married then; he was dating Anushka, and he came and said, 'You know, only wives are allowed. Can I get my girlfriend in here?' I said sure. He said no, the board isn't allowing it. So, I made the call, and she came up, and she joined him. In the very first game, the Boxing Day Test, he got 160, and then the same scenes—the flying kiss went out, just like yesterday. So, you know, she's a big support for him," Shastri revealed.
After Anushka joined Kohli in Australia, the Indian star delivered a memorable performance in the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Kohli scored an outstanding 169 runs in the third Test, showcasing his mastery over Australian conditions. After reaching his century, Kohli famously blew a kiss to Anushka, who was cheering him on from the stands, a gesture that was reminiscent of his celebration during the 2024 Perth Test.