Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket has sparked an outpouring of emotion across the cricketing world, with former and current players celebrating one of the game’s modern greats. Among the first to pen a heartfelt tribute was New Zealand’s Kane Williamson, who shared a long message reflecting on their journey together: from U19 cricket to the biggest stages in world cricket. Williamson and Kohli led their respective sides in the U19 World Cup in 2008, which India went on to win. Since then, both have shared the field multiple times over the years and remain as one of the iconic duos in international cricket. "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. A pleasure to share the field from the U19 days and right through 14 years of test cricket. Gosh, where has all that time gone. It’s a credit to you that you expressed your authentic self right from the start through to the end. Respect bro, all the best with the new chapter," wrote Williamson. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kane Williamson (@kane_s_w) Kohli finishes his Test career with 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, placing him fourth on India’s all-time run charts behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. His legacy, however, extends well beyond the numbers, with 29 Test centuries, a bold captaincy reign, and a fierce competitive spirit that defined India’s new era in red-ball cricket. Virat Kohli's Test Retirement Wasn’t Voluntary? Claims Report Steve Smith wishes Kohli on his retirement Australia’s Steve Smith also paid his respects to Kohli, choosing a simple but powerful message to honour his longtime rival and peer. “Congratulations Virat Kohli on an incredible Test career,” Smith wrote on his Instagram story. Smith and Kohli shared one of the most intense rivalries in modern Test cricket, often going head-to-head in high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy contests. Both batters defined their generation: Kohli with his aggression and flair, Smith with his unorthodox mastery. Also READ: How Much Did Virat Kohli Make Per Test Match? Find Out Kohli's departure from the Test arena marks the end of an iconic era in 'Fab Four' history.