Kane Williamson has ended his Twenty20 international career. The former New Zealand captain announced his decision on Sunday. He will still play ODI and Test cricket for the Blackcaps.
Williamson began his T20 career against Zimbabwe in 2011. He played 93 matches for New Zealand and led the side in 75 of them. Under his captaincy, New Zealand reached the T20 World Cup final in 2021 and the semi-finals in 2016 and 2022.
The 35-year-old scored 2,575 runs in T20 internationals. He hit 18 half-centuries with a highest score of 95.
“I loved being part of this team for a long time,” Williamson said. “I feel grateful for all the memories and experiences. I believe this is the right time for me and for the team. This gives the players clarity before their next big goal, which is the T20 World Cup. The team has a lot of young talent, and now they will get more chances to prepare for the future.”
New Zealand Cricket confirmed that Williamson will play the three-Test series against West Indies in December. He no longer holds a central contract but has kept an open mind about his one-day international career.
NZ Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink praised Williamson’s impact. “Kane delivered world-class performances in all conditions,” Weenink said. “He led the team with great skill and inspired everyone around him.
“With Kane set to play the West Indies Test series, I encourage fans to come and watch one of New Zealand’s greatest cricketers.”
