Kane Williamson retires from international cricket; signs off as New Zealand's highest run scorer

New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson on Friday announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, ending a long 16-year career.
Announcement of Williamson’s retirement was posted on X by BLACKCAPS, the official handle of New Zealand‘s national men’s cricket team.
“The decision had been on his mind for some time but that he now felt it was the right moment to step away from the international stage” said the 35-year old, who made his debut in 2010.

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“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. “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.”

Having played 378 international matches in his career, he was considered a pivotal player in New Zealand’s rise on the global stage. He was also the strategic advisor for Lucknow Super Giants’ IPL side.


Under his leadership, New Zealand made it to two ICC Cricket World Cup finals, reached three ICC semis, and clinched the inaugural ICC World Test Championship trophy in 2021. He was also named as the ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2015 and ICC Test Cricketer of the year in 2019.


“One of our greatest ever, signing off. Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket effective immediately,” the NZC said.