Former Indian test captain and star batter Virat Kohli posted a heartfelt appreciation note on X regarding the retirement of the New Zealand star, Kane Williamson. The two have been playing against each for quite some time and they have had their moments on the field. Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson have had a solid relationship on-field in games between India and New Zealand and in the IPL as well. Kane Williamson has been considered as one of the best technical players in World Cricket and his composure on the field has been widely appreciated. His retirement from international cricket would indeed be a huge loss to cricket and only another player who has walked down similar paths could resonate with him. 

“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. ” quoted Virat Kohli on X. The words of India’s former test captain reflects the relationship formed between the two over the years. Kane Williamson has been a very likeable player in World Cricket and perhaps after Ab de Villiers, he could be the most celebrated overseas cricketer in India.

Virat Kohli reflects on relationship with Kane Williamson

“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,” he added. 

Kane Williamson has been the first player of the “Fab Four” to retire from all forms of international cricket despite the others retiring from selected formats. The first time that Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson crossed the paths dates back to the 2008 U-19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia. The New Zealand side-led by Kane Williamson has caused a considerable amount of upsets for the Indian side led by Virat Kohli.

In the 2021 ICC World Test Championship Finals, Kane Williamson’s New Zealand put up a dominant display of test cricket to deny India from getting their hands on the trophy. The biggest heartbreak of the Indian fans would be the 2019 ICC World Cup Semi-Finals, when New Zealand edged past India in a dramatic thriller. These two have faced each other in several ICC tournaments and it always has packed a punch to see two distinct individuals go head-to-head in intense battles.

As Kane Williamson decides to retire from all formats of the game, the fans will be heartbroken that they will no longer get to see him on the international stage. We could still see the Kiwi star batter in the coaching setup as he is the current batting mentor for the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL. He could even be considered for a spot in New Zealand’s coaching personnel considering his tactical brilliance.