Kane Williamson announces retirement from international cricket
(Courtesy : Getty Images)
Kane Williamson led New Zealand to victory in the ICC World Test Championship 2021.
New Zealand‘s former captain and one of the most prolific all-format batsmen, Kane Williamson, has hung up his boots in the International arena, effective immediately.
He last represented the Kiwis in the first Test match between England and New Zealand, recently played at Lord’s. His 16-year-long international career for New Zealand spanned 378 matches, during which he broke and set numerous records.
Kane Williamson retires with 19,000-plus international runs
More than cricket, Williamson has earned the respect and admiration around the world for his gentleman-like nature. The 35-year-old finishes as New Zealand’s all-time leading run-scorer with more than 19,000 runs to his name, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries.
He has led the Black Caps in several ICC tournaments, making it to the knockouts more often than not. From 2016-24, he led the side in all formats, where they made two ICC World Cup Finals, three semi-finals, and won the inaugural ICC World Test Championship in 2021; all under his impeccable leadership.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time. 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 added, “Continuing with anything less wouldn’t be right and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms.”
Wishing the best for the team for the future, Kane said,
“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.”
“An incredible player, awesome teammate, a wonderful leader and a fantastic ambassador for our sport,” is how BLACKCAPS coach Rob Walter described the legend.
Kane Williamson has won many accolades during his international career, which include 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Player of the Tournament, 2019 ICC Test Player of the Year, 2018 ICC Spirit of Cricket Award, Sir Richard Hadlee Medal – 2015-16, 2016-17, 2019 and 2020; among others.
What is Kane Williamson’s biggest achievement as New Zealand Captain?
New Zealand won the ICC World Test Championship 2021 under Williamson’s captaincy.
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Cricket runs in the blood of Indians — and that’s something she truly believes in. A law student with a lifelong connection to the game, she has followed cricket passionately since his school days. Like countless young fans, she first experienced the sport on the field before deepening his understanding through constant watching, reading, and conversations around the game. Writing became a natural extension of that passion, bringing a “Pavilion Perspective” to his work — capturing how fans experience matches through their own lens.