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Indian batting star Virat Kohli shared an emotional message for Latest Zealand\u2019s Kane Williamson following the latter\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n 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\u2019s Joe Root and Australia\u2019s Steve Smith, they became a part of cricket\u2019s celebrated modern-era \u2018Fab 4\u2019.<\/span><\/p>\n On June 12, Williamson announced his retirement from all international formats through Instagram, after which Kohli posted a heartfelt tribute for him on X:<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cFrom an opponent to a friend through the years. It\u2019s 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.\u201d<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n From an opponent to a friend through the years. It\u2019s 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\u2026<\/p>\n \u2014 Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 12, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Kohli also wished Williamson success for the subsequent chapter of his life, adding that the Latest Zealand star\u2019s journey is barely starting beyond international cricket.<\/span><\/p>\n As mentioned earlier, the Virat Kohli-Kane Williamson rivalry provided fans with several memorable moments, particularly in ICC events. Williamson\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n Nevertheless, Kohli answered back with a historic fiftieth ODI century during India\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n Get the most recent cricket news here, like us on Facebook<\/a>, and follow us on Twitter<\/a> and Instagram <\/a> for more such updates.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n
Virat Kohli Finished Ahead of Kane Williamson in ICC Tournament Rivalry<\/span><\/h3>\n
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