WELLINGTON, November 2: New Zealand’s legendary batter and former captain Kane Williamson has officially announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, drawing curtains on a glittering 14-year career in the shortest format of the game.
The 35-year-old confirmed his decision ahead of New Zealand’s upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies, which he will miss to focus on the three-match Test series in December.
Williamson retires as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in men’s T20Is, having scored 2,575 runs in 93 matches at an impressive average of 33.00, including 18 half-centuries and a career-best score of 95.
Since making his T20I debut in 2011, Williamson captained the BLACKCAPS in 75 matches, leading them to two ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016, 2022) and a final in 2021, where his remarkable knock of 85 remains one of the most memorable T20 innings by a Kiwi.
Reflecting on his decision, Williamson said it was the right time to step aside and make way for the next generation.
“It’s something I’ve loved being part of for a long period of time. I’m incredibly grateful for the memories and experiences. It feels like the right time for myself and the team to move forward,” he said.
He also praised new T20I captain Mitchell Santner, calling him a “brilliant leader,” and expressed confidence in the BLACKCAPS’ future.
“It’s now their time to take the team forward in this format, and I’ll be supporting from afar,” Williamson added.
While retiring from T20Is, Williamson remains open to continuing his ODI and Test careers, with his immediate focus on preparing for the three-Test home series against the West Indies beginning December 2 in Christchurch.
His next domestic appearance will likely come for Northern Districts in the Plunket Shield second-round match against Auckland at Bay Oval, Tauranga, starting November 26.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) CEO Scott Weenink hailed Williamson’s legacy, describing him as one of New Zealand’s greatest ever players.
“Kane’s performances as a player and captain have been immense. His 85 in the T20 World Cup final remains one of the finest T20I innings ever played by a New Zealander,” Weenink said.
“Under his leadership, the team achieved remarkable consistency and success. He’s earned the right to decide how and when to conclude his international career.”
Despite stepping away from international T20s, Williamson will continue to play in T20 franchise leagues worldwide, maintaining his presence in the global cricket circuit.
With his calm demeanor, tactical brilliance, and unmatched consistency, Kane Williamson leaves behind a legacy that redefined New Zealand cricket’s modern era — a true ambassador of the gentleman’s game.
