'From an opponent to a friend' - Virat Kohli shares emotional message on Kane Williamson's retirement

Virat Kohli took to social media to congratulate New Zealand's Kane Williamson on an outstanding international career, after the former captain announced his retirement midway through the Test series against England.

Kohli shared a heartwarming message for his fellow rival and friend, Williamson. The 37-year-old stated that he thoroughly enjoyed watching him bat and their contests on the field, but will also cherish their friendship off it. The former India captain wishes the Black Caps all the very best for the second innings of his life.

"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. #KaneWilliamson," Virat Kohli posted on X (formerly Twitter).

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…

It is worth mentioning that both Williamson and Kohli decided to hang up their boots just shy of 10,000 runs in Test match cricket. While the Indian batter called it quits at 9,230 runs in the longest format of the game, the Kiwi was a lot closer, having scored 9,515 runs. While Kohli, however, will still turn out for India in One Day Internationals (ODIs), Williamson has completely retired from the international stage.

Both right-handed batters have had incredible on-field battles during their respective tenures as captains. Most notably, the pair faced off during the 2021 ICC World Test Championship Final in Southampton, where New Zealand secured an eight-wicket victory.