Former New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from the T20Is as he brings down curtains on an illustrious career in the shortest format. The 35-year old batter also leaves as New Zealand’s second-highest run-getter in men’s T20Is. He has amasses 2,575 runs with an average of 33 which includes 18 half-centuries and a high score of 95.
Williamson made his T20I debut in 2011 and he led the BlackCaps for 75 matches. In his captaincy, New Zealand reached the T20 World Cup semi-final in 2016 and 2022 and finished as runners-up in 2021 edition. Williamson has also confirmed that he will be missing the upcoming white ball series against West Indies in order to focus on three-match Test series which will be held in December. He explained his decision and mentioned that it is the right time to step aside and allow the next generation to take over.
“It’s something that I’ve loved being a part of for a long period of time, and I’m so grateful for the memories and experiences. It’s the right time for myself and the team. It gives the team clarity for the series moving forward and ahead of their next major focus, which is the T20 World Cup,” Williamson said in an official release issued by New Zealand Cricket (NZC).
“There’s so much T20 talent there, and the next period will be important to get cricket into these guys and get them ready for the World Cup. Mitch (Mitchell Santner) is a brilliant captain and leader – he’s really come into his own with this team. It’s now their time to push the BLACKCAPS forward in this format and I’ll be supporting from afar,” he added.
“I’ve got such deep care for this team. The BLACKCAPS is a special place and one you want to give yourself to and get the most out of yourself for. It’s a journey and a pursuit, and that’s what I love about the international game and this environment,” said Williamson.
“I’ll continue to keep the lines of communication open with Rob and NZC, who have given me a huge amount of support throughout,” he added.
Now that Kane has retired from T20Is, his focus shifts to ODIs and Tests. He will also remain active in franchise cricket but as a strategic advisor for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).
