The fifth Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3, 2025, was filled with gripping moments, but one of the most talked-about scenes came not from the field but from the stands. Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma’s heartfelt reaction to her husband Virat Kohli’s dismissal quickly went viral, becoming the highlight of the day for fans and media alike.
Kohli’s entry at 17/2 was a crucial moment for India, who were reeling after the early loss of both openers. Expectations were high as Kohli, known for his resilience, walked out to steady the innings. However, his stay at the crease turned out to be a mix of drama and disappointment.
Scott Boland, Australia’s ever-reliable pacer, tested Kohli with deliveries just outside off-stump, an area that has occasionally troubled the Indian maestro. On one such delivery, Kohli edged the ball to first slip, where Steve Smith made an athletic effort to claim the catch. The Australians were confident they had their man, but replays revealed the ball had touched the ground. Third umpire Joel Wilson ruled Kohli not out, giving him a reprieve.
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Unfortunately, Kohli’s luck didn’t last long. In the 31st over, Boland found the edge again, and this time Beau Webster at third slip made no mistake. Kohli’s dismissal sent shockwaves through the Indian camp, but it was Anushka Sharma’s reaction in the stands that stole the spotlight.
The camera captured Anushka’s expression as Kohli walked back. Her face reflected a mix of disbelief, frustration, and deep concern—a silent prayer for her husband amidst the pressure. Fans on social media were quick to share and discuss the moment, with many commenting on the genuine connection it displayed between the couple.
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Anushka’s reaction resonated with fans, symbolizing the emotional investment not only of a supportive spouse but also of millions of Indian cricket followers. Her heartfelt response became a rallying point for fans, who took to social media to express their solidarity with Kohli and admiration for Anushka’s unwavering support. The moment epitomized the human side of cricket, where personal connections shine as brightly as the on-field performances.
Virat Kohli Lady Luck Anushka Sharma present in Sydney to support Virat
Hope He scored big Runs today #INDvsAUS #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/jM9mMUN14z— Cricktainment (@Cricktainments) January 3, 2025
Virat Kohli was more side-on today and he avoided chasing full and wide deliveries. Hard hands so keeps finding the edge – wants to feel the ball. Kohli is always looking to press forward and has hard hands so keeps fishing at deliveries around the off-stump channel. Boland is a…
— Sarang Bhalerao (@bhaleraosarang) January 3, 2025
That’s the 22nd time in Tests since the start of 2021 that Virat Kohli has been out to a pace bowler fiddling outside off stump. #INDvsAUS #AUSvIND
— Jamie Alter 🇮🇳 (@alter_jamie) January 3, 2025
Even Kohli will be let go after this test match IMO. Once again the Indian top order has not made 100 runs.
— कुशल मेहरा (@kushal_mehra) January 3, 2025
69 balls in the crease and a hard fought tough innings but unfortunately the pattern of dismissal remains the same.
— Prasanna (@prasannalara) January 3, 2025
Virat Kohli now has 7 out of 7 dismissals in this #INDvAUS series caught nicking off outside off.
— Saurabh Somani (@saurabh_42) January 3, 2025
On this occasion, Kohli has been grounded.
— Gaurav Sethi (@BoredCricket) January 3, 2025
Here we go again…#INDvsAUS #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/wqSkKHfj3g
— Prayag (@theprayagtiwari) January 3, 2025
Australian PM to Virat Kohli pic.twitter.com/YXhSc3DIBn
— Vishal (@VishalMalvi_) January 2, 2025
🚨Virat Kohli in that last 20 Test inns without Perth Century:-
46, 12, 6, 17, 47, 29*, 0, 70, 1, 17, 4, 1, 5, 7, 11, 3, 36, 5, 17
Runs – 334, Avg – 𝟭𝟳.𝟱𝟳#INDvsAUS pic.twitter.com/IuFNdZeR6j
— Broot (@TeamBumrah) January 3, 2025
Can’t play spin at home, can’t play pace away from home. What can he do?
Blind slogging on roads for a failed IPL team.
Does he even deserve to play red ball cricket?
SHAME ON VIRAT KOHLI
— Mohith (@mohith0710) January 3, 2025