As cricket fans across the world absorbed the emotional news of Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket, it was his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, who offered a deeply personal and moving tribute to the legendary cricketer. While the world celebrates Kohli’s milestones and match-winning performances, Anushka reflected on the quieter, unseen struggles that shaped the man behind the achievements.

“They’ll talk about the records and the milestones — but I’ll remember the tears you never showed, the battles no one saw, and the unwavering love you gave this format of the game,” Anushka wrote in her heartfelt note. “I know how much all this took from you… watching you evolve through it all has been a privilege.”

She expressed how, in her heart, she always imagined Virat would end his international career in the whites of Test cricket — the format closest to his soul. “But you’ve always followed your heart,” she added. “And so I just want to say my love, you’ve earned every bit of this goodbye.”

Virat, in his own retirement statement, echoed the sentiment of deep connection to the longest format. “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life,” he shared. “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites.”

He concluded by saying, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”

Together, their words painted a picture of love, sacrifice, and gratitude — a fitting farewell to one of the game’s greatest Test players.