Summary New Zealand great Kane Williamson retires immediately, ending a distinguished international career highlighted by record runs and Test glory.a
WELLINGTON (Web Desk) - New Zealand batting legend and former captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 16-year career at the highest level.
The 35-year-old, who is currently part of New Zealand’s squad for the ongoing three-match Test series against England, has decided to retire with immediate effect. As a result, he will also miss the remaining two matches of the series.
In a statement, Williamson said he had been considering the decision for some time and recently felt that it was the right moment to step away from international cricket. He added that representing New Zealand had always been a great honour and that he had given his utmost effort in every match.
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Williamson retires as the most successful batter in New Zealand’s Test cricket history. During his career, he scored 9,515 runs in 110 Test matches, along with 7,256 runs in One-Day Internationals and 2,575 runs in T20 Internationals.
One of the defining achievements of his career came in 2021 when he led New Zealand to their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title. As captain, Williamson also guided the team to several major international finals and semi-finals.
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter praised Williamson as not only a world-class cricketer but also an exemplary leader and an outstanding ambassador for the sport. He said Williamson’s contributions and influence would remain an integral part of New Zealand cricket for years to come.
