Kane Williamson retires from international cricket

New Zealand batting legend and former captain Kane Williamson has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to one of the finest careers in the country’s cricket history.

The 35-year-old was part of New Zealand’s squad for the ongoing three-match Test series against England but has decided to retire with immediate effect. As a result, he will miss the remaining two matches of the series.

In his statement, Williamson said he had been considering retirement for some time and recently realised that it was the right moment to step away from international cricket. He said representing New Zealand had always been a great honour and that he had given his best every time he wore the national jersey.

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Williamson retires as New Zealand’s most successful Test batter. During his outstanding career, he scored 9,515 runs in 110 Test matches, 7,256 runs in One-Day Internationals, and 2,575 runs in T20 Internationals.

One of the biggest highlights of his career came in 2021 when he led New Zealand to its first-ever ICC World Test Championship title. Under his captaincy, the team also reached several major international finals and semi-finals.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter praised Williamson as a world-class cricketer, an exceptional leader, and a true ambassador for the game. He said Williamson’s influence on New Zealand cricket would continue to inspire future generations long after his retirement.