Kane Williamson retires from international cricket

Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket effective immediately midway through New Zealand 's three-Test series in England. bringing an end to a career that began 16 years ago in 2010.

Williamson, 35, made 0. 18 in New Zealand's defeat in the first Test at Lord's and has decided not to play the next two fixtures at The Oval and Trent Bridge. He has not been centrally contracted with NZC since June 2024. preferring to play select international series amid his T20 franchise commitments in the twilight of his career.

"I've thought about it for a while,. over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time," Williamson said in a NZC statement. "I've always felt a strong drive. 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.

"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."

Williamson finishes as New Zealand's highest run-scorer in Test cricket with 9515 runs at an average of 54.06 in 110 matches. The pinnacle of his career came when he led New Zealand to victory in the inaugural World Test Championship final in 2021. against India. He also made 7256 ODI runs in 175 matches ( fourth highest for New Zealand ). 2575 T20I runs ( second highest for New Zealand ) in 93 matches.

Williamson captained New Zealand in 40 Tests (22 wins, 10 losses. eight draws), 91 ODIs (46 wins, 40 losses, one tie), and 75 T20Is (39 wins, 34 losses, one tie). Under his leadership, apart from the World Test Championship title, New Zealand made the semi-finals of the 2016 T20 World Cup, the final of the 2019 ODI World Cup, the final of the 2021 T20 World Cup,. the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup and the 2023 ODI World Cup.

"Anyone who's had the privilege of working with Kane understands he is a very special player. person," New Zealand coach Rob Walter said in an NZC statement. "Although it's been short-lived, it's been a real privilege to watch him go about his work. listen to his thoughts and views on the team and the game itself. His numbers. batting skills speak for themselves, but it's what he means to this BLACKCAPS team, as well as world cricket - that will be his legacy. His impact on the culture and standards of this team will remain embedded in its DNA.

"Kane's always put the team first. although we're disappointed to see him go, we're happy to know he's content and at peace with his decision. An incredible player, awesome teammate, a wonderful leader and a fantastic ambassador for our sport."

Williamson had already begun transitioning into a post-playing career. having taken up the role of strategic advisor with IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants in October last year. He spoke before the Lord's Test about it being his last playing appearance at the ground. has now opted to step away from all international cricket, having announced his T20I retirement in November.