London, June 12: New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished 16 year career with the BLACKCAPS.
The 35 year old leaves the game as New Zealand’s highest run scorer across all formats, having amassed 19,346 international runs in 378 matches.
Williamson confirmed that he would step away from international cricket with immediate effect, saying the decision came after careful consideration.
He said his passion for representing New Zealand remained strong but felt it was the right time to retire, believing he had given his best in every match for his country.
One of our greatest ever, signing off.
Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket effective immediately.
Head to https://t.co/Pm8RiU65zt to read more. pic.twitter.com/e22MeZ410e
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 12, 2026
Widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s greatest cricketers, Williamson scored 48 international centuries and six double centuries during his career. He also finished as the country’s leading run scorer in Test cricket with 9,515 runs and 33 centuries.
As captain, Williamson guided New Zealand through one of the most successful periods in its cricket history. Between 2016 and 2024, he led the team to two ICC World Cup finals, three semi finals, and victory in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final in 2021.
Williamson was named ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2015 and ICC Test Player of the Year in 2019. He also won the prestigious Sir Richard Hadlee Medal on four occasions.
BLACKCAPS head coach Rob Walter praised Williamson’s contribution, describing him as an exceptional player, leader, teammate, and ambassador for the sport.
Cricket legend Richard Hadlee also paid tribute, saying Williamson’s commitment, leadership, and consistency had made him one of the finest players of his generation.
Among his many achievements, Williamson became the first player to score centuries in four consecutive Test matches for New Zealand and was named Player of the Tournament at the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup.
His retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, with Williamson leaving behind a legacy built on excellence, humility, and leadership.
Now you can get the latest stories from Indtoday on Telegram every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Indtoday’s Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram. For all the latest Hyderabad News updates and Follow us on GoogleNews
