Kane Williamson announced his retirement from T20Is, aiming to focus more on the longer formats of the game. He has played T20Is for 14 years.
New Zealand recently beat England in an ODI series. After the series, Williamson confirmed his decision.
“It feels like the right time — for myself and for the team,” Williamson said in a statement. “I’ve loved every bit of playing T20 cricket for New Zealand, but it’s time to give the next group the clarity and opportunity they deserve.”
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Williamson, 35, retires as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in the format, with 2,575 runs in 93 matches at an average of 33.44.
He led the side in 75 of those games, including two World Cup semi-finals and the 2021 final against Australia, where his 85 remains one of the most memorable innings by a Kiwi batter in the format.
“Performance is one thing, but his leadership, humility, and calmness have shaped the team’s culture for years,” New Zealand coach Rob Walter said. “He’s the kind of player you build a team around — on and off the field.”
Williamson, who handed over the T20 captaincy to Mitchell Santner earlier this year, said he’s confident about the next generation.
“Mitch is doing a wonderful job. It’s their time now, and I’ll be cheering from the sidelines,” Williamson said.