Chahal reveals unseen side of Virat Kohli from 2019 World Cup Semi-final heartbreak 

Virat Kohli is revered not just for his aggressive batting and unmatched fitness but for the emotional weight he carries as India’s cricketing icon. While he has built a legendary career filled with historic milestones, not all moments have been triumphant.

 In a deeply personal revelation, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal recounted an emotional incident that exposed the heartbreak behind India’s 2019 World Cup exit.

"I Saw Him Crying in the Bathroom"

Speaking on the podcast ‘Figuring Out’ With Raj Shamani, Chahal shared a vulnerable side of Kohli. After India’s crushing semi-final loss to New Zealand in Manchester, where they failed to chase down a modest 240, emotions overflowed in the dressing room.

“2019 World Cup, I saw him crying in the bathroom,” Chahal revealed. “Everyone was crying. When I crossed Virat bhaiya after getting out, I saw tears in his eyes.”

India had come close but fell short by 18 runs on the reserve day, with Kohli dismissed early by Trent Boult for just 1 run—a blow that stunned fans and teammates alike.

Regret and Reflection

Chahal, who was India’s most expensive bowler in that match (10-0-63-1), continues to carry that performance with regret. “It was Mahi bhai’s last match. I could have bowled better, maybe conceded 10-15 runs less. It all happened so fast. I wish I had stayed calmer.”

Tears Again in 2025

Referencing the emotional aftermath of the recent IPL 2025 final, where Kohli broke into tears after leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden title, Shamani connected the dots between Kohli’s emotional vulnerability and fierce competitiveness.

The Heart Behind the Hero

Virat Kohli’s passion is often seen in his intensity on the field, but stories like these reveal the depth of emotion that fuels the fire. Beyond the records and centuries lies a man who hurts when India falls short—and that’s what makes him a true icon.