Following Virat Kohli’s message to retire from test format on Monday, his wife – Bollywood actress wrote – Anushka Sharma a deep note on his Instagram post.
The Bollywood actress said she would remember Virat’s undeveloped tears and secret battles and said “They will talk about the records and milestones – but I will remember the tears you have never shown, the struggles that no one saw, and the unwavering love you gave this format of the game.”
She further added that after each test series he had evolved and became a little wiser and humble. Furthermore, she said it had been her privilege to see him develop.
Sharma added that she had imagined how he would have withdrawn from the international test cricket, added “but you have always followed your heart and therefore I will say my love, you have earned any bit of this goodbye.”
The 36-year-old Indian Batsman, who debuted in 2011, ends his red ball career with 9,230 races and 30 centuries in 123 games, an average of 46.85.
Kohli confirmed the decision via Instagram and called the test cricket a format that tested and shaped him. “It’s not easy – but it feels right,” he wrote. “There is something deeply personal about playing in white. The quiet grinding, the long days, the little moments that no one sees, but which stay with you forever.”
The Indian Stalwart’s last test was against Australia in January and marked the end of a sparkling career in which he also became India’s most successful test captain.
Kohli led his side in 68 games, won 40, lost only 17 and took the team to the final of the World Cup 2021 and 2023.
India’s next test assignment is a five-match series against England, which begins June 20.
