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Kane Williamson's sudden retirement from international cricket has touched the hearts of fans around the world. Soon after the New Zealand legend made his big announcement, former India captain Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message that showed how much he respects his long-time friend and the special bond between two of the game's greatest stars.
Williamson said good bye to international cricket after serving New Zealand for 16 memorable years on Friday, June 12. During his incredible career, he became one of New Zealand’s greatest-ever players and earned admiration across the cricket world for his class, consistency, and humble nature. Before Kohli, David Warner also paid tribute to Kane Williamson.
Virat Kohli's heartfelt message for Kane Williamson goes viral
The bond between Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson remains a beautiful story beyond the boundaries of the game, and his emotional tribute to one of the modern era’s greats reflects their genuine friendship built on trust, admiration, and mutual respect over the years.
Soon after his retirement, the Indian batting icon took to his X handle (formerly Twitter) to congratulate Williamson and hailed not only the New Zealander’s achievements but also their special relationship that grew stronger over the years despite the intense competition between their teams.
Life’s only just begun: Virat Kohli to Kane Williamson
Kohli wrote on X: “From an opponent to a friend over the years. It’s been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so many years, but more than that, I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the game and beyond. I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet.”
Calling one of the game’s true gentlemen his "brother," the former Indian captain wished Williamson well for the next chapter of his life. Kohli added, “Wishing you nothing but the best always, brother. You’ve done your bit; you deserve to enjoy all of it now and put your feet up. Well done, mate; life’s only just begun. ❤️ #KaneWilliamson”
From an opponent to a friend over the years. It’s been a pleasure watching you bat and compete against you over so many years but more than that I value our friendship and shared perspectives on the game and beyond. I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet. Wishing you…
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) June 12, 2026
From Under-19 captains to lifelong friends
Meanwhile, Virat Kohli vs Kane Williamson have always been interesting. Well, Kohli and Williamson first met as young captains during the 2008 Under-19 World Cup. Over the years, they played against each other many times and became strong rivals on the field. But off the field, they built a very close friendship.
They have always been in touch, talking about the game, books, spirituality, life, and many other things. They also shared videos and interesting ideas with each other that they found on social media. Their connection was never only about cricket, and that is what made it so special.
Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson share another incredible similarity
Well, both Kohli and Kane ended their Test careers just before reaching the 10,000-run mark. Williamson finished with 9,515 runs in 110 Test matches at a superb average of 54.06. He scored 33 centuries, including six double hundreds, and became one of the greatest Test players.
On the other hand, Kohli, who retired from Test cricket in 2025, finished with 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85. He smashed 30 Test centuries and a record seven double hundreds.
Williamson's last Test match came against England at Lord's. He got out for a duck in the first innings and scored only 18 runs in the second as New Zealand also lost the match by 115 runs at Lord’s.
