Virat Kohli's Touching Tribute To Kane Williamson After Retirement Captures Respect And Bonding: 'Well Done Mate, Life’s Only Just Begun'

Virat Kohli has penned a heartfelt note for Kane Williamson, who has just announced his retirement from international cricket on Friday. Both Virat and Williamson still share a very good bond and rapport both on and off the pitch. Williamson finished as New Zealand's all-time leading run scorer in the three formates combinedly.

Virat Kohli Congratulated Kane Williamson After International Retirement

Virat took to social media to congratulate Kane on his cricketing journey. He posted 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. 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.”

Both Virat and Williamson followed the same path and met in the ICC 2008 U19 World Cup final. Virat claimed Williamson's wicket on that day and India went on to lift the title. Both players admired each other and it often reflected in their mannerisms and behaviour.

The two recently met prior to an IPL game between RCB and Lucknow Super Giants, and the moment went viral. Both Virat and Kane are part of the “Fab Four”, which also has Steve Smith and Joe Root.

Williamson amassed 9346 runs, including 48 hundreds and 6 double hundreds. The 35 year old was a consultant with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025, and it remains to be seen whether he will return to IPL 2026 for any other team. Under Williamson's leadership, New Zealand went to two ICC World Cup Finals, three semi-finals, and also won the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021.

Also Read: New Zealand's All Time Leading Run Scorer Kane Williamson Retires From International Cricket