"I value our friendship..." — Virat Kohli's emotional tribute to Kane Williamson post-retirement

The rumours have now become reality. One of the finest red-ball batters of his generation, New Zealand veteran Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on one of the most distinguished careers in the modern era.

Williamson, who had already stepped away from T20Is last year, finishes as New Zealand's all-time leading run-scorer with 19,346 runs from 378 international matches. His remarkable career included 48 centuries and six double hundreds, cementing his place among the greatest batters the game has ever seen.

Following the announcement, India star Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt message for his fellow "Fab Four" member. Taking to social media, the former India captain congratulated Williamson on an illustrious career, praising not only his achievements on the field but also the friendship they built over the years. Kohli's tribute reflected the immense respect shared between two cricketers who have defined batting excellence across formats for more than a decade.

Kohli opens up on his special bond with the Kiwi legend

Virat Kohli paid a heartfelt tribute to Kane Williamson following the New Zealand great's retirement from international cricket. The former India captain congratulated Williamson on an extraordinary career and reflected on the friendship they have built over the years. Kohli's message highlighted the mutual respect shared by two of the finest batters of their generation.

Taking to social media, Kohli wrote: "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." His words captured a relationship that has grown far beyond the boundaries of international competition.

The bond between Kohli and Williamson dates back to their early cricketing days. Both represented their countries at the 2008 Under-19 World Cup before going on to become modern-day greats. Over the years, they faced each other in international cricket, ICC tournaments, and franchise leagues, building a rivalry that gradually evolved into a strong friendship based on mutual admiration.

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Williamson and Kohli were also key members of cricket's celebrated "Fab Four," alongside Steve Smith and Joe Root. The quartet dominated world cricket for more than a decade, consistently setting new standards across formats. While Kohli's aggressive style contrasted with Williamson's calm approach, both earned widespread respect for their remarkable consistency and excellence at the highest level.

"I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet." — Kohli's heartfelt words for Williamson

Virat Kohli ended his tribute to Kane Williamson with an emotional message that reflected the strong friendship the two cricketers have built over the years. Congratulating the New Zealand great on an outstanding international career, Kohli wrote: "I continue to cherish every time we speak or meet. 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."

Williamson retires as New Zealand's all-time leading international run-scorer, having amassed 19,346 runs across formats. The 35-year-old finishes his career with 48 centuries and six double-centuries, leaving behind a legacy as one of the finest batters of the modern era. He will also miss New Zealand's ongoing Test series in England following his decision to step away from international cricket.

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As captain, Williamson guided New Zealand through one of the most successful periods in the team's history. Between 2016 and 2024, he led the Black Caps to two ICC Cricket World Cup finals, three World Cup semi-finals, and their historic triumph in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021. His calm leadership and consistency with the bat earned him respect across the cricketing world.

Explaining his decision, Williamson said: "I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear that now is the right time. I've always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing I've given it my all in every match I've played for New Zealand. Continuing with anything less wouldn't be right, and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms." He added, "I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. There's a huge amount of talent and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team. It's a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long."

Fans react as Kohli's tribute to Williamson goes viral

Virat Kohli's heartfelt tribute to Kane Williamson quickly went viral across social media, with fans from around the world praising the bond shared by two of cricket's modern greats. Many supporters described the message as a fitting farewell to a player who has earned admiration not only for his performances but also for his humility and sportsmanship throughout his career.

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Cricket fans flooded social media with reactions, celebrating Williamson's achievements and recalling some of his finest moments in international cricket. Others highlighted the mutual respect between Kohli and Williamson, noting how their rivalry evolved into a friendship despite years of competing against each other on the biggest stages. Here is how the fans reacted:

While Williamson's numbers underline his greatness, tributes from fellow players such as Kohli perhaps provide the clearest indication of his standing in the game. As one chapter closes on an extraordinary international career, the New Zealand legend leaves the international stage with the respect and admiration of the cricketing world firmly intact.