Watch: “I Am a Huge Virat Kohli Fan" - Rishi Sunak reveals special signed bat gift story during IPL 2026

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak once again proved his love for the game of cricket during the IPL, where he was found supporting Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Having strong personal relations with India, Rishi has often spoken about his admiration for Indian cricket. His appearance at the match caught the attention of fans.

During an interaction Rishi Sunak revealed his favorite cricketer, Virat Kohli. He called himself a huge fan and praised Kohli’s achievements in world cricket. This came shortly after Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket. Sunak described him as a “total legend” of the game.

He also shared a special personal story about a memorable gift. “I am a huge Virat Kohli fan - he is a total legend. One of my prized possessions is one of his signed bats that Minister S. Jaishankar brought to me when I was the Prime Minister to the Downing Street as a Diwali gift, which is amazing,” he said. The moment reflected a unique mix of cricket and diplomacy.

How Virat Kohli’s Signed Bat Became Rishi Sunak’s Special Diwali Gift

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar visited the United Kingdom during Diwali and met Rishi Sunak at 10 Downing Street. He conveyed festive wishes on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The meeting highlighted the strong relationship between the two nations.

During the visit, Jaishankar and his wife Kyoko Jaishankar presented a Lord Ganesha idol and a bat signed by Virat Kohli. The gift symbolised both cultural and sporting ties between India and the UK. It also became a cherished possession for Sunak.

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Sharing details of the meeting, Jaishankar wrote, “Delighted to call on Prime Minister @RishiSunak on #Diwali Day. Conveyed the best wishes of PM @narendramodi. India and UK are actively engaged in reframing the relationship for contemporary times. Thank Mr. and Mrs. Sunak for their warm reception and gracious hospitality.”

Sunak’s passion for cricket has been visible on several occasions. He once shared a light-hearted moment with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during the Vilnius Summit in Lithuania. Both leaders joked about the Ashes 2023 series, showing pictures and engaging in light-hearted banter. Sunak made a witty remark about the sandpaper controversy, which showed his vast knowledge and love for the game.