One more time on the big stage: Kohli vs Williamson

The two generational batting greats at the fag end of their careers are once again chasing glory

- 

DUBAI: Of late, when Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson meet, they tend to find time between cricket to discuss family, life and sport. They may do that again when their paths cross in training ahead of Sunday's Champions Trophy final in Dubai.

Whether it was their tête-à-tête before the inaugural World Test Championship final or their warm embrace after, these are the kind of engagements players miss once their time is up.

"Very similar mindsets, very similar philosophies. He's just a really nice guy, and we've known each other for a while. It's amazing to know that in different parts of the world you are thinking the same things, talking the same language and heading in the right direction," Kohli once said about Williamson.

Sportspersons in their mid-30s know every big tournament they play could well be their last. And these are generational greats who have topped the batting charts over the years are now in the twilight of their careers. Only the other day, Steve Smith called time on his ODI career. He seemed to tell Kohli at the end of the semi-final, before the announcement was emailed the next day, by Cricket Australia to the wider world.

Kohli was by Smith's side, directing the largely Indian crowd at the Oval in the 2019 World Cup, not to taunt the former Australian captain for his past mistakes. Kohli and Williamson enjoy the same camaraderie and mutual respect.