Kane Williamson announces international retirement

New Zealand's modern-day great Kane Williamson has pulled the curtains down on a glittering international career, effective immediately. The announcement brings an end to one of the most prolific batting careers in modern cricket.

Williamson's retirement has come in the middle of New Zealand's ongoing three-match Test tour of England.

Reflecting on his time as a member of the New Zealand teams and his career, Williamson said that he gave everything in his capacity for the Blackcaps over a 16-year-long career.

“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time," said Williamson in a press release issued by New Zealand Cricket (NZC).

“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.

“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.

“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.”

Kane Williamson: A modern-day great

Williamson holds the record for scoring the most runs (19,346) for New Zealand in men's internationals. He is the most prolific run-getter (9,515) for the Kiwis in Tests. Williamson also holds the record for scoring the most centuries in Test cricket (33) and international cricket (48) for New Zealand.

Williamson also enjoyed a storied career as captain. Under his leadership, New Zealand won the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship in 2021 by beating India by eight wickets. He led the Blackcaps on 206 occasions across formats with 107 wins, 86 losses, five drawn Tests and five games that ended in no results.

He also famously led the Blackcaps to the ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2019 final, where they lost to England on boundary count. He was adjudged the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Player of the Tournament. He aggregated 578 runs in nine games at the tournament at an astounding average of 82.57, including two centuries and as many fifties.

Kane Williamson: Records and achievements