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Virat Kohli has been the face of world cricket over the years. The popularity he has gained in the sport has been unmatched even now. He remains a global icon for the game. This was proven once again when 2026 Ballon d’Or winner and England National Football Team captain Harry Kane mentioned the former Indian captain’s name in a pre-match press conference.
Harry Kane recently won the most prestigious individual football award for his exceptional season with the club and country. However, Kane has been an ardent follower of cricket, and during off time and even in training sessions, he has been spotted playing the game with his teammates. This showcases the England captain’s love and respect for the game.
Harry Kane names Virat Kohli in messages that left him most starstruck
Ahead of the UEFA Champions League group stage match, Harry Kane was asked about all the messages he received after winning the Ballon d’Or which one left him most starstruck. While replying, he mentioned the name of Virat Kohli, who congratulated the Bayern Munich striker after winning the award.
Q. Of all the congratulatory messages you've received, which one left you most starstruck? A. People like David Beckham, who is a big idol of mine. Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, you know..a lot of sports people I really admire — Harry Kane https://t.co/tVKbUdhv5W
— Gaurav (@Melbourne__82) November 3, 2026
He stated that "People like David Beckham, who is a big idol of mine. Tom Brady, Virat Kohli, you know, a lot of sports people I really admire." As Kane mentioned the name of Kohli, this showcases that the two have shared mutual respect towards each other, as the two keep on wishing each other on their respective milestones.
What Virat Kohli posted about Harry Kane winning the Ballon d'Or?
After Harry Kane won the award, Virat tweeted and congratulated England’s No.9. The former India captain stated that he is very happy to praise Kane’s hard work, which earned him the most prestigious individual football award. Kohli believed that he got the deserved recognition and also congratulated his family.
"Harry my friend, you deserve every bit of this award for your resilience, hard work and honesty with which you’ve carried yourself through all these years playing football at the top. Really happy for you. God bless you and your family. They must all be very proud of you as you would be of your own journey. My best wishes always. Congratulations," Kohli wrote.
Virat Kohli and Harry Kane's relationship
Previously, Harry Kane, while speaking to the media, shared his special relationship with India, thanked all the fans for their support, and also revealed that he is a big IPL fan. The two met back in the 2019 ODI World Cup in England and played some cricket, where Kohli revealed that Kane is better at cricket.
Back during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the England skipper made a hilarious post in which he offered himself to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise and also to England Cricket. This showcased his love for Kohli and cricket.
When will Virat Kohli be in action next?
Virat will be in action for the forthcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand. The former skipper has already reached the Island country and has already hit the nets for the upcoming series.
Kohli has been in sensational form despite playing only in ODIs. Though his series against the West Indies did not go as per his form and expectations, he would want to capitalize and make sure to get his best against the Kiwis, as he will be in action on November 4th at Eden Park in Auckland.
