Kane Williamson, New Zealand batting great, has confirmed his retirement from international cricket effective immediately. Williamson’s announcement brings an end to a glittering 16-year international career where he played 378 games for his country, setting countless batting records and earning the respect and admiration of the cricketing world.
The 35-year-old finishes as New Zealand’s all-time leading international run-scorer with 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries.
Alongside his world class numbers, Williamson’s captaincy and leadership style was much admired, as he led the New Zealand in all three formats during a golden period from 2016-2024, where they made two ICC World Cup Finals, three semi-finals, and won the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021.
After making his BLACKCAPS debut in 2010 and retiring from T20Is in November, Williamson said the time was now right to fully step away.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time. I’ve always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing I’ve given it my all in every match I’ve played for New Zealand.
Continuing with anything less wouldn’t be right and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms,” he said.
“I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. There’s a huge amount of talent, and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team.
It’s a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart,” he added.
More to follow..
