WTC final: Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli share a warm hug after New Zealand’s heist at the Rose Bowl

Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson are known to share a mutual respect for each other irrespective of the result of matches. The same was palpable at the end of the World Test Championship (WTC) final as well at the Rose Bowl in Southampton.

On Wednesday, June 23, New Zealand beat India in the final by eight wickets after the marquee match was forced into the Reserve Day. Rain threatened to mar the game after washing away two full days.

But in the end, the Williamson-led Black Caps came out trumps in a comprehensive manner. Following the match, Virat and Kane shared a warm hug, showing how much they respect each other. Both were also appreciative of each other after the curtains came down on the two-year-long WTC.

That Hug of Indian Captain Virat Kohli to Worl Champion New Zealand Captain and Hero of Match Kane Williamson ❤️❤️❤️#INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/ihS1037dwO

— IPL 2021 – #IPL2021 #IPL #IPL14 #IPLT20 (@CricketDailyIN) June 23, 2021

Kane Williamson elated

It was the Kiwis’ maiden world title ever since they won the 2020 Knockout Trophy in Nairobi. After the victory, Kane, who scored 49 and an unbeaten 52 in the game, was happy with how his team performed on the big stage.

“It’s a special feeling. It’s nice to get one under the belt. I’d like to thank Virat and the Indian team. The heart that our team showed was commendable. It’s the first time we have come away with a world title, and the 22 players who played a big part in getting across the line deserve all the appreciation. This will be remembered for a long time,” Williamson said after the game.

Kohli, who failed to perform in the second innings after scoring 44 in the first, admitted that the Kiwis exerted pressure on his team from the word go. He also lauded Williamson and Co for showing a lot of “consistency and heart”.

“First up, big congratulations to Kane and his team. They’ve shown great consistency and heart, and pull off a result in three days. They put us under pressure throughout the Test and did extremely well to win,” Kohli stated following India’s defeat.

On the last day, India were shot out for 170, setting the Kiwis a target of 139 runs. Chasing the modest score, New Zealand lost Tom Latham and Devon Conway to Ravi Ashwin. However, Kane’s half-century and Ross Taylor’s unbeaten 47 took New Zealand over the line.