Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma Kicked Out of a New Zealand Cafe: Jemimah Rodrigues Shares the Wholesome Story
In a heartwarming anecdote that has gone viral, Indian women’s cricket star Jemimah Rodrigues recently revealed a surprising incident involving cricket legend Virat Kohli and Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma. During a tour in New Zealand, the celebrity couple, along with Jemimah and her teammate Smriti Mandhana, were humorously “kicked out” of a cafe after an engaging four-hour conversation. This blog dives into the details of this delightful story, shared by Jemimah on Mashable India’s The Bombay Journey, and explores what it reveals about the down-to-earth nature of ‘Virushka’.
The Setting: A New Zealand Cafe
The incident occurred during a time when both the Indian men’s and women’s cricket teams were staying at the same hotel in New Zealand, likely during a bilateral series or tournament. Jemimah and Smriti, eager to learn from one of cricket’s greatest batsmen, approached Virat Kohli for advice on batting. What started as a professional discussion soon turned into a memorable, marathon chat session that spilled over into a cafe at the hotel, with Anushka Sharma joining the trio.
Speaking to Mashable India, Jemimah recounted, “We were in New Zealand, and the men’s and women’s teams were staying in the same hotel. So, Smriti and I asked Virat if we could talk to him about batting. He was like, ‘Yeah, please come,’ and told us to come down to the cafe.”
From Cricket to Life: A Four-Hour Chat
The conversation began with a focus on cricket, with Virat sharing valuable insights. He offered an inspiring pep talk, telling Jemimah and Smriti, “You both have the power to change women’s cricket, and I can see that happening.” This encouragement left a lasting impression on the young cricketers, highlighting Virat’s mentorship and belief in the future of women’s cricket in India.
However, the discussion quickly evolved beyond cricket. Jemimah described it as feeling “like a few long-lost friends who met and spoke.” For nearly four hours, the group delved into personal stories, life experiences, and “random stuff,” with Anushka adding warmth and relatability to the conversation. The casual setting of the cafe fostered an atmosphere of camaraderie, showcasing the couple’s approachable and grounded personalities.
The Humorous Twist: Kicked Out by Cafe Staff
As the hours flew by, the group lost track of time, engrossed in their lively exchange. Around 11:30 PM, the cafe staff, likely eager to close for the night, intervened. Jemimah recalled with a laugh, “The only reason we stopped was because the cafe staff kicked us out. They said, ‘That’s enough. It’s 11:30. Leave now!’”
This humorous moment has since captured the imagination of fans, painting a picture of a relaxed and unpretentious side of Virat and Anushka. The incident, far from being a negative experience, has become a cherished memory for Jemimah, highlighting the couple’s ability to connect authentically with others.
Virat and Anushka: A Private Life in the Spotlight
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, fondly known as ‘Virushka’, are one of India’s most adored celebrity couples. Married in a picturesque ceremony in Tuscany, Italy, on December 11, 2017, they have since embraced a quieter life in London, where they are raising their two children, Vamika (born 2021) and Akaay (born 2024). Their move to London reflects their desire for privacy, away from the media frenzy in India.
Despite their global fame, stories like this cafe incident reveal their down-to-earth nature. Virat, a cricketing icon with a legacy of leading India to numerous victories, and Anushka, a celebrated actress and producer, remain approachable and supportive, as evidenced by their mentorship of young talents like Jemimah and Smriti.
The Context: India’s Cricketing Landscape in 2025
This anecdote comes at a time when Indian cricket is undergoing significant changes. Virat Kohli recently announced his retirement from Test and T20I formats, focusing on ODIs, with an upcoming series against Australia starting September 30, 2025. The Indian team also celebrated a dominant victory against UAE in the Asia Cup 2025, led by new captain Suryakumar Yadav and red-ball skipper Shubman Gill. Jemimah’s story adds a human touch to this evolving narrative, reminding fans of the personal connections that thrive within the sport.
Why This Story Resonates
The cafe incident is more than just a funny anecdote—it’s a testament to the power of genuine human connections. Here’s why it has struck a chord with fans:
- Relatability: Despite their superstar status, Virat and Anushka engaged in a long, casual chat, proving they’re approachable and relatable.
- Mentorship: Virat’s encouragement to Jemimah and Smriti highlights his commitment to uplifting women’s cricket, inspiring the next generation.
- Humor: The lighthearted “eviction” from the cafe adds a humorous twist, making the story endearing and memorable.
Fans on social media platforms like X have reacted warmly, with many praising the couple’s humility and Jemimah’s storytelling. Posts describe the incident as “wholesome” and a “beautiful glimpse into Virushka’s real selves,” reflecting widespread admiration.
Lessons from the Cafe Chat
This story offers a few takeaways:
- Mentorship Matters: Virat’s words to Jemimah and Smriti show how experienced athletes can inspire and guide younger talents, fostering growth in sports.
- Authenticity Wins: The couple’s ability to connect on a personal level, even with their global fame, is a reminder to stay grounded.
- Time Flies with Good Company: A four-hour conversation that feels like minutes underscores the joy of meaningful interactions.
Conclusion
The tale of Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Smriti Mandhana being “kicked out” of a New Zealand cafe is a delightful blend of humor, inspiration, and warmth. It showcases Virat and Anushka’s down-to-earth personalities and their genuine connection with fellow cricketers. As fans continue to celebrate this story, it serves as a reminder that even superstars can share simple, relatable moments over a cup of coffee—until the cafe staff say, “Time’s up!”
For more details, check out reports from Financial Express, Gulf News, News18, or Hindustan Times, which covered Jemimah’s heartwarming revelation. Stay tuned for more stories that capture the human side of cricket’s biggest stars!
Sources: Financial Express, Gulf News, News18, Hindustan Times, Republic World, DNA India, Times of India, One World News, Bollywoodshaadis.com, NDTV
Disclaimer: This blog is based on publicly available reports and is for informational purposes only. Details may vary based on further accounts or clarifications.
