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"Felt Like It'll Never...": Kane Williamson Stunned By Virat Kohli's Sudden Test Exit

Akshita Patel

Kane Williamson reacts to Virat Kohli's Test retirement [Source: AFP Photos]Kane Williamson reacts to Virat Kohli's Test retirement [Source: AFP Photos]

Virat Kohli's abrupt announcement to retire from Test cricket in May 2025 took the cricketing world, and even his long-time foe Kane Williamson, by surprise. The New Zealand batting great admitted that the news caught him completely off guard, describing it as a “reality check” for himself and other senior players.

Kohli walked away from Test cricket after an incredible career spanning 123 matches in which he scored 9,230 runs. For more than a decade, he was one of the most dominant players in Test cricket, popular for his aggressive attitude, remarkable fitness, and unparalleled desire to score runs.

His name became synonymous with the elite ‘Fab Four,’ alongside Williamson, Joe Root, and Steve Smith, who ruled world cricket for years.

Kane Williamson Says Virat Kohli’s Retirement Was A Reality Check

However, in the past couple of years, Kohli’s form dipped. The last season was his toughest, with just one century and no half-centuries in three series, including home games against Bangladesh and New Zealand and a tough away tour of Australia.

Despite the slump, veteran New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson admired Virat Kohli for leaving on his own terms. Talking to Independent, the Kiwi star admitted not expecting Kohli’s farewell but it was a stern reminder for senior cricketers to cherish every moment at the top level.

“You never really consider it and you do see some of your opponents and mates making some of these decisions and you think ‘gosh, it has been a while’, and you’re not getting younger. It’s a reality at some stage. For someone like Virat, who made that decision to go out on his own terms and do what he’s done for the game, that’s amazing. That’s so special. Everyone was caught by surprise because you feel like it will never happen, but it does. I’m more aware of that than most – and that’s great,” Williamson said.

Unlike Kohli, Williamson is still in the mix of playing all formats for New Zealand despite rejecting a central contract. He is still very much in the team’s plans for the upcoming WTC cycle.

Williamson Paid Tribute To Kohli In Moving Post

Kane Williamson penned a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli on Instagram, celebrating his remarkable cricket journey after his Test retirement. He recalled their shared journey from U19 cricket to 14 years of Test battles, expressing how quickly time has passed. 

"Congratulations brother, @virat.kohli. What a journey. The numbers are there for everyone to see, but your impact has gone far beyond that. You’ll be remembered for pushing the boundaries of the game. That drive and hunger has been an inspiration to all of us," Williamson wrote on Instagram.

Williamson admired Kohli’s ability to remain authentic throughout his career, from the very beginning to the final chapter. Calling him an inspiration to cricketers worldwide, Williamson signed off with respect and warm wishes for Kohli’s next phase beyond international cricket.