When Ravi Shastri called BCCI to let Virat Kohli bring then-girlfriend Anushka Sharma to Australia in 2015: Watch video

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri recently revealed an interesting anecdote about Virat Kohli in Australia during a discussion on Fox Cricket. Shastri recounted that in 2015, Kohli had asked Shastri if his then-girlfriend, Anushka Sharma, could join him on the Australian tour. At the time, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had a policy that only allowed players’ spouses, not girlfriends, to accompany them on overseas tours.

“I called up the BCCI and explained the situation. They understood and made an exception, allowing Anushka to join Virat. This decision made a world of difference,” Shastri shared.



The impact of Anushka’s presence became evident during the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne in 2015. Kohli, brimming with confidence and support, smashed a magnificent 169. His flying kisses to Anushka in the stands became iconic, symbolizing the emotional connection driving his performance.

Shastri drew parallels between that century and Kohli’s latest heroics during the ongoing Test series against Australia. On Day 3 of the opening Test in Perth, Kohli ended his long wait for a Test hundred, scoring an exceptional 121 on one of the most challenging pitches in the world. This marked Kohli's 81st international ton, his 30th in Tests, and his seventh century on Australian soil, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record of six.

“Seven hundreds in Australia. The big stage, the big ground, the bouncy tracks—there’s no better testament to Virat’s class and resilience,” Shastri said, lauding Kohli’s ability to thrive under pressure.

The century not only silenced critics questioning Kohli’s form in the longest format but also highlighted his knack for rising to the occasion in Australia. Since his return to Tests in August, Kohli had struggled with consistency, managing just one half-century in five home matches. This drought, spanning 15 innings, finally ended in style.

For Shastri, Kohli’s knock was a powerful statement. “This is ominous for the Australians. No overseas player in the last 15 years has batted in this fashion here. It’s a masterclass on technique and temperament,” he remarked.

Kohli’s innings showcased his remarkable ability to adapt, and the 2015 incident serves as a reminder of the vital role mental health and personal support play in shaping a player’s success. Shastri’s decision to back Kohli’s request exemplifies the progressive mindset that defines modern cricket management.

For fans, Kohli’s flying kisses in Perth might have brought back memories of Melbourne 2015—moments that underscore how love and cricket can create magic on and off the field.