Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket, effective immediately, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said in a media release. With this decision, Williamson brings curtains to a 16-year career, in which he played 378 matches for the Black Caps across formats.
He ends his career as New Zealand’s highest run-getter with 19,346 runs, including 48 tons and six double centuries. Moreover, as captain, he led New Zealand to two World Cup finals, three semi-finals, and also ended his side’s ICC trophy drought, when they won the inaugural World Test Championship (WTC) in 2021.
Right time to step aside
Williamson, who retired from T20 Internationals (T20I) in November last year, feels this was the right time to step away from international cricket.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time,” Williamson said.
“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. 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.”
‘An unflappable leader’
Williamson was named the ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2015, and four years later in 2019, he was awarded the Test player of the year. Along with these, he has also won the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal on four occasions.
Speaking of Williamson, Hadlee said, “Kane’s been a wonderful player and has been a fine leader. He’s demonstrated a willingness to continually advance his game to the highest level in all three formats and he rightfully finishes as one of the best players of his era.
“The way he prepared himself physically and mentally was perhaps the most impressive part. He was always committed to working hard and developing his technique to ensure he was ready to be a world-class player.
“He’s been an unflappable leader and the architect of some of our greatest moments in cricket. I commend him and thank him for everything he has contributed to cricket and wish him a happy retirement.”
Williamson’s retirement means he will not take part in the rest of the ongoing Test series against England. In his final Test at Lord’s, he scored 0 & 18 as New Zealand went on to lose by 115 runs.
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