The fifth day of the Australia vs India Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) was a rollercoaster of emotions for Indian cricket fans. As the team faced a daunting target of 340 runs, the stakes could not have been higher. However, the early dismissal of star batter Virat Kohli for just 5 runs off 29 balls sent shockwaves through the stadium and left his supporters, including his wife Anushka Sharma and fellow cricketer KL Rahul’s wife Athiya Shetty, visibly devastated.
Virat Kohli falls again on the off-stump line
Kohli’s dismissal came at a critical juncture when India were already struggling at 33/3. His tentative poke at a wide delivery from Mitchell Starc not only dashed hopes for a successful chase but also showcased a recurring issue in his batting technique—getting caught behind off deliveries outside the off stump. As Kohli walked back to the pavilion, the disappointment on his face mirrored that of countless fans who had gathered to support him.
The ripple effect of dismissals on the final day
Kohli’s early exit was compounded by Rahul’s equally disheartening dismissal for a duck earlier in the match. This double blow left India reeling and highlighted the fragile state of their batting lineup. Kohli’s failure to adapt to the conditions and his persistent pattern of dismissals sparked outrage among fans on social media, with many expressing their frustration through memes and harsh critiques. The pressure mounted as Rishabh Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal attempted to stabilize the innings, but with each passing over, the odds seemed increasingly stacked against them.
Also WATCH: Rishabh Pant runs out Mitchell Starc with a perfect throw on Day 4 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test
Anushka Sharma and Athiya Shetty’s devasted reaction over Kohli’s wicket
Anushka has been a constant presence at Kohli’s matches, often seen cheering him on from the stands. Her reaction during this match was particularly poignant, as it reflected not just her support but also her emotional investment in Kohli’s performance. The couple’s relationship has often been under public scrutiny, yet moments like these reveal the personal stakes involved beyond just professional competition. Anushka’s heartbreak resonated with many fans who share a deep connection with Kohli and his journey.
Athiya, married to Rahul, shared in this moment of collective disappointment. Her presence alongside Anushka symbolized a bond forged through shared experiences as partners of cricketers facing immense pressure on the field. The two women’s reactions were emblematic of how closely intertwined personal lives can become with professional challenges in high-stakes sports environments.
Anushka Sharma is all of us right now Kohli just doesn’t feel like Kohli anymore pic.twitter.com/ULvkIWaM6E
— Kevin (@imkevin149) December 30, 2024
The aftermath of Kohli’s dismissal saw an explosion of reactions on social media platforms. Fans expressed their frustration not only at Kohli’s performance but also at what they perceived as a pattern of underwhelming displays from senior players like him and Rahul. Some even suggested that it might be time for these veterans to consider retirement from Test cricket. The emotional toll on players and their families was evident as they navigated through public scrutiny and personal expectations.