Kane Williamson retires from international cricket

Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket effective immediately midway through New Zealand’s three-Test series in England, bringing an end to a career that began 16 years ago in 2010.

Williamson, 35, made 0 and 18 in New Zealand’s defeat in the first Test at Lord’s and has decided not to play the next two fixtures at The Oval and Trent Bridge. He has not been centrally contracted with New Zealand Cricket since June 2024, preferring to play select international series amid his T20 franchise commitments in the twilight of his career.

“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 NZC 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. 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.”

Williamson finishes as New Zealand’s highest run-scorer in Test cricket with 9515 runs at an average of 54.06 in 110 matches. The pinnacle of his career came when he led New Zealand to victory in the inaugural World Test Championship final in 2021, against India. He also made 7256 ODI runs in 175 matches (fourth highest for New Zealand) and 2575 T20I runs (second highest for New Zealand) in 93 matches.