New Delhi: Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson on Friday announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable career that spanned more than 16 years and established him as one of the greatest batters of his generation.
The 35-year-old, who had already retired from T20Is in November last year, said he had been contemplating the decision for some time and felt now was the right moment to step away from the international stage.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time,” Williamson said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.
“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.”
“Continuing with anything less wouldn’t be right, and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms,” he added.
Williamson retires as New Zealand’s highest run-scorer across formats, amassing 19,346 runs in 378 international matches. His tally includes 48 centuries and six double hundreds, achievements that place him among the modern greats of the game.
Widely regarded as one of cricket’s celebrated “Fab Four” batters alongside Virat Kohli, Joe Root and Steve Smith, Williamson was admired not only for his elegant strokeplay but also for his calm leadership and sportsmanship.
Reflecting on his journey with the national side, Williamson said he remained optimistic about the future of New Zealand cricket.
“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,” he said.
“It’s a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart.”
Williamson is currently in England for New Zealand’s ongoing Test series, where the visitors lost the opening match by 115 runs at Lord’s. His retirement means he will not feature in the remaining matches of the series, with New Zealand Cricket yet to announce a replacement.
Over the course of his career, Williamson played a pivotal role in some of New Zealand’s greatest cricketing moments, including leading the team to the inaugural World Test Championship title in 2021 and guiding the Black Caps to multiple ICC finals.
His retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket and closes the chapter on one of the most accomplished and respected careers in the modern game.
