Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Following Virat Kohli’s emotional announcement of retirement from Test cricket, veteran Bollywood actor Anil Kapoor reflected on a personal moment he shared with the cricketing legend over a decade ago.
Taking to his Instagram Stories on Monday, Kapoor reposted Kohli’s heartfelt retirement message and shared a nostalgic memory from 11 years ago. He revealed that he first met Kohli during the filming of the 2015 movie Dil Dhadakne Do, which featured Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s now-wife.
“We met eleven years ago on a cruise when Anushka was shooting Dil Dhadakne Do,” Kapoor wrote. “I still remember how warm, humble, and down-to-earth you were—it left a lasting impression on me. Since then, I’ve been admiring you from afar—your discipline, passion, and the sheer joy and pride you’ve given us through your incredible achievements on the field.”
Kapoor added a touching tribute to Kohli’s impact on the nation: “Though we haven’t met again since, I’ve always been cheering for you. Congratulations on everything you’ve accomplished. You may have retired from Test cricket, but you’ll never retire from the hearts of 1.4 billion Indians—and millions more around the world. Thank you, Virat.”
On Saturday, Kohli stunned fans with his decision to retire from Test cricket, ending a remarkable 14-year career in the format. In his Instagram post, he reflected on the personal significance of Test cricket, writing:
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites… It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life… I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude… #269, signing off.”
Kohli retires with 123 Test matches, 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, 30 centuries, and a best score of 254—India’s fourth-highest run-getter* in Tests. He debuted in June 2011 and went on to become one of the format’s most prolific run scorers and an inspiring captain.
While his initial years were marked by promise, it was his prime between 2016 and 2019 that solidified his greatness—scoring 4,208 runs in 43 Tests at a staggering average of 66.79, including seven double centuries—the most by a Test captain.
Despite a dip in performance during the 2020s, Kohli staged a partial comeback in 2023, scoring 671 runs in eight Tests at an average of 55.91. His grit, technical skill, and fighting spirit helped him etch unforgettable innings across Australia, England, South Africa, and India.
From his 2014 heroics Down Under to his 2018 redemption tour in England, Kohli’s Test journey has been one of overcoming adversity and achieving excellence—earning respect from fans, peers, and public figures like Kapoor alike.