New Zealand's veteran batter Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20Is, drawing the curtain on a distinguished career in the shortest format of the game. The 35-year-old, who made his T20I debut in October 2011, leaves behind a remarkable legacy built on consistency and technical mastery. He finishes off as New Zealand's second-highest run-scorer in men's T20Is, piling up 2,575 runs at an average of 33, including 18 fifties.
“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.
“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 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 said.
He also led New Zealand through several memorable campaigns, including guiding them to the final of the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup, where they went down against Australia. Williamson, meanwhile, will continue to play franchise cricket.
Williamson is now focused on preparing for the upcoming three-Test series against the West Indies in December.
“I’ve got such deep care for this team,” he said.
“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.
“I’ll continue to keep the lines of communication open with Rob and NZC who have given me a huge amount of support throughout.”