India ace batter Virat Kohli has paid tribute to New Zealand’s retiring batter Kane Williamson in a social media post.
Kohli to the social media platform, recalling cherished memories alongside Williamson.
“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,” he 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,” he added.
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Earlier, Kane Williamson called time on his glittering international career spanning 15 years before the second Test against New Zealand at the Oval Cricket Ground.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time,” he wrote on behalf of the statement from New Zealand Cricket.
“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,” the statement read.
Williamson made his debut for New Zealand in 2010 against India at Ahmedabad. He finished as the White Ferns’ highest run scorer, amassing 19,346, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries.
Widely regarded for his leadership style on the field, Kane finished his Test career at 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06, including 33 centuries.
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His leadership style was much admired, and he captained the side in all three formats during a golden period from 2016 to 2024.
During that time, New Zealand reached two World Cup finals and three semi-finals, and won the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
He was named as the ICC Cricketer of 2015 and Test player of the year in 2019, while also winning the domestic Sir Richard Hadlee Medal on a record four occasions.
READ: Babar Azam pens heartfelt message on Kane Williamson’s retirement
