Williamson says Kohli conversation helped clarify retirement

Kane Williamson said a conversation with Virat Kohli the day before his retirement announcement helped him reflect on his decision to leave international cricket, but he described the choice as his own. Williamson shared the account on the Between Two Beers podcast, saying the two discussed their experiences of long careers, leadership and family life.

Williamson said he spoke with people he trusted before announcing his retirement. He described his conversation with Kohli as like looking in a mirror, saying the pair had occupied similar positions despite representing different countries. Kohli was still playing at the time, Williamson said, but had already made major decisions about his own career.

After the call, Williamson recalled, his wife entered their hotel room and he told her it was time. He said the discussion let them share personal feelings about their careers and connect over changes in their relationship with cricket. His account does not suggest Kohli made the decision for him; Williamson said the conversation helped him understand what he was feeling.

Williamson said he had sensed that his approach to the game was changing and wanted to understand that shift...