Key points
- T20I retirement provides clarity for team focus
- Williamson remains open to continuing ODI/Test career
WELLINGTON: Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s former captain and star batter, has announced his retirement from T20 International (T20I) cricket, ending a distinguished 93-match career in the shortest format. The 35-year-old confirmed he would also miss the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies to focus on the three-Test series in December.
Williamson, who is New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in T20Is with 2,575 runs at an average of 33, including 18 half-centuries and a top score of 95, made his T20I debut in 2011. As captain, he led the BLACKCAPS in 75 matches, guiding them to two ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016 and 2022) and a final (2021).
Reflecting on his decision, Williamson said it felt like the right time to step aside and let the next generation take charge. “It’s the right time for myself and the team,” he said, adding that his retirement would provide clarity for the team’s focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Brilliant leader
He also praised new captain Mitchell Santner as a “brilliant leader” and expressed confidence in the team’s future.
While retiring from T20Is, Williamson remains open to continuing his ODI and Test career, with his immediate focus on the three-Test series against the West Indies, starting on December 2 in Christchurch.
New Zealand Cricket CEO Scott Weenink lauded Williamson’s contributions, calling him one of the game’s greats. He noted Williamson’s “85 in the T20 World Cup final remains one of the finest T20I innings ever played by a New Zealander.”
Despite stepping away from international T20s, Williamson will continue playing in T20 franchise leagues globally.
