Kane Williamson Announces Retirement From T20 Internationals

Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, ending a remarkable 93-match career in the format just four months ahead of the next T20 World Cup. The 35-year-old departs as New Zealand’s second-highest run-getter in men’s T20Is, scoring 2,575 runs at an average of 33, with 18 half-centuries and a top score of 95.

Debuting in 2011, Williamson captained New Zealand in 75 T20Is, guiding the team to two ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016 and 2022) and a final appearance in 2021.

“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,” Williamson said. “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.”

“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 [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.”

Kane Williamson Hands Over White-Ball Captaincy, Focuses On Tests And Domestic Cricket

Williamson had already handed over the white-ball captaincy to Mitchell Santner following New Zealand’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. Since then, he has been selective about his international commitments, striving to balance national duties with franchise cricket and family responsibilities. The veteran batter skipped the recent Chappell-Hadlee T20I series against Australia and missed the England matches due to a groin injury.

He made his return to white-ball cricket during the recently concluded ODI series against England, his first appearance since the Champions Trophy final. Williamson has also stated that he remains open to continuing in other formats as he nears the twilight of his illustrious career.

Up next, Williamson is expected to feature for Northern Districts in their Plunket Shield fixture against Auckland at Bay Oval, starting November 26. His primary focus, however, lies on the upcoming three-Test series against the West Indies beginning December 2 in Christchurch.

Kane Williamson expressed his deep affection for the BlackCaps, calling it a special team he’s proud to serve. He thanked NZC for their support and vowed to stay connected. NZC CEO Scott Weenink praised Williamson’s immense impact as both player and captain, highlighting his leadership and memorable 85 in the T20 World Cup final.

Williamson, who will keep playing in T20 franchise leagues, is still New Zealand’s highest run-scorer across all formats.