Indian batting star Virat Kohli shared an emotional message for Latest Zealand’s Kane Williamson following the latter’s retirement from international cricket. Kohli reflected on how their journey began as rivals in 2008 before evolving into an in depth friendship through the years.
The 2 first met in the course of the 2008 U-19 World Cup in Malaysia and later faced one another often in major ICC tournaments. Together with England’s Joe Root and Australia’s Steve Smith, they became a part of cricket’s celebrated modern-era ‘Fab 4’.
On June 12, Williamson announced his retirement from all international formats through Instagram, after which Kohli posted a heartfelt tribute for him on X:
“From an opponent to a friend through the years. It’s been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so a few years but greater than that I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the sport and beyond. I proceed to cherish each time we speak or meet.”
From an opponent to a friend through the years. It’s been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so a few years but greater than that I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the sport and beyond. I proceed to cherish each time we speak or meet. Wishing you…
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 12, 2026
Kohli also wished Williamson success for the subsequent chapter of his life, adding that the Latest Zealand star’s journey is barely starting beyond international cricket.
Virat Kohli Finished Ahead of Kane Williamson in ICC Tournament Rivalry
As mentioned earlier, the Virat Kohli-Kane Williamson rivalry provided fans with several memorable moments, particularly in ICC events. Williamson’s Latest Zealand defeated Kohli-led India within the 2019 World Cup semifinal, the 2021 T20 World Cup group-stage clash and the 2021 World Test Championship Final.
Nevertheless, Kohli answered back with a historic fiftieth ODI century during India’s victory over Latest Zealand within the 2023 World Cup semifinal. The 2 stars later met again within the ICC Champions Trophy final in Dubai, where India emerged victorious, allowing Kohli to finish the ICC rivalry on a winning note against Williamson.
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