'I’ll remember the tears you never showed..': Anushka Sharma's heartfelt message after Virat Kohli retires from Tests

In a long note, Anushka shared her exclusive experience of seeing Kohli enduring tough times, facing challenges and evolving with every experience.

She wrote, "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. 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."

"Somehow, I always imagined you’d retire 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," the actress, who cheered Kohli from the stands over the years either as a girlfriend or wife, added.

Virat Kohli announces retirement

Kohli on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending his illustrious journey in red ball cricket.

Kohli announced his retirement in an Instagram post.

In a long note, Kohli wrote, "It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.

"There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever."

The former India captain added, "As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.

"I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way."

"I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile."

The 36-year-old had earlier expressed to the Indian cricket board BCCI his wish to retire from Tests.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had appealed to Kohli to reconsider his decision in the run-up to the England tour.

Kohli, who retired from T20Is in 2024, will continue to play in One Day Internationals.