Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from all international cricket with immediate effect, meaning he will play no further part in the ongoing Test series against England.
End of an era for Black Caps legend
Williamson brings a close to a 16-year career that was highlighted by numerous accolades, including captaining New Zealand to victory in the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021. The 35-year-old batter made his Test debut against India in November 2010 in Ahmedabad and went on to play 110 Tests, scoring 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06. He is New Zealand's all-time leading international run-scorer across all formats, with 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries.
Williamson's statement on his decision
“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,” Williamson said in a statement. “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.”
Captaincy and achievements
Williamson led the Black Caps as captain across formats between 2016 and 2024. He captained the Test side for 40 matches, including the 2021 World Test Championship final against India. He won 22 Tests and scored 11 hundreds as captain before stepping down from the role in 2022. His list of accolades includes being named the International Cricket Council’s cricketer of 2015 and Test player of 2019, while also winning the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal for New Zealand’s best performer on a record four occasions.
Tributes from the cricket community
New Zealand’s coach, Rob Walter, paid tribute, adding: “Anyone who’s had the privilege of working with Kane understands he is a very special player and person. Kane’s always put the team first and although we’re disappointed to see him go, we’re happy to know he’s content and at peace with his decision. He’s an incredible player, awesome teammate, a wonderful leader and a fantastic ambassador for our sport.”
