Anushka Sharma Pens Heartfelt Tribute to Virat Kohli After His Test Retirement: "You've Earned Every Bit of This Goodbye"

New Delhi, May 12 — Shortly after Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, his wife and renowned actor Anushka Sharma took to Instagram to express her admiration and pride, calling it a privilege to witness his growth throughout his Test journey.

Kohli, 36, officially ended his illustrious Test career on Monday, bringing to a close a chapter that spanned 123 matches, 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, and an average of 46.85. The announcement drew emotional responses from fans and fellow cricketers alike, but none more poignant than Sharma’s heartfelt tribute.

“You’ve Earned Every Bit of This Goodbye,” Says Anushka​

In an emotional post, the 37-year-old actor celebrated Kohli’s journey beyond just his cricketing milestones.

“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,” she wrote.

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She highlighted the resilience and emotional depth Kohli carried through every series.

“I know how much all this took from you. After every Test series, you came back a little wiser, a little humbler and watching you evolve through it all has been a privilege,” Sharma added.

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A Sentimental Goodbye in Whites​

Kohli, who had previously stepped away from T20 Internationals, will now continue only in the ODI format. Sharma revealed that she had always pictured him ending his international career in the traditional whites.

“Somehow, I always imagined you'd retire from international cricket in whites. But you've always followed your heart, and so I just want to say my love, you've earned every bit of this goodbye.”

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A Power Couple Beyond the Field​

Married since 2017, Kohli and Sharma are proud parents of two — daughter Vamika, who is four, and their 15-month-old son Akaay. Through the years, Sharma has often been seen supporting Kohli at stadiums, and her tribute reflects the deep personal sacrifices and victories behind the scenes of professional sport.

Kohli's retirement marks the end of a golden era in Indian Test cricket, and Anushka Sharma’s message captures the emotional weight of that moment — both as a partner and a keen observer of his historic journey.