Anushka Sharma Pens Emotional Note For Virat Kohli After Test Retirement Amid Online Backlash

Anushka Sharma has penned a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli following his announcement that he is retiring from Test cricket. In an emotional Instagram post, she reflected on Virat's unwavering commitment to the game.

"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.

Photo Credit: PTI

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."

Virat responded to her message with heart emojis.

Anushka's post was shared shortly after Virat's retirement news broke, and it comes amid a flurry of online abuse she has been receiving. Social media platforms such as Twitter and Reddit have seen users blaming her for 'influencing Virat', following his decision to step away from Test cricket.

Virat announces his retirement

On Monday afternoon, Virat posted to his 271 million Instagram followers: "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. 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."

The 36-year-old previously retired from T20 internationals after winning the World Cup last year.

Like Test captain Rohit Sharma, who also announced his red-ball retirement last week, Kohli is expected to continue playing One Day Internationals.

Anushka, meanwhile, has taken a break from her acting career and is currently focused on raising their two children, daughter Vamika and son Akaay.