WELLINGTON, New Zealand – November 2, 2025 – New Zealand cricketing legend and former captain, Kane Williamson, has officially announced his retirement from T20 International (T20I) cricket, effective immediately. The decision, which comes as the Black Caps look ahead to the next ICC T20 World Cup, marks the end of a decorated 14-year career in the shortest format for the 35-year-old.
Williamson, known for his composed leadership and batting class, steps away from T20Is as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in the format, having amassed 2,575 runs in 93 matches at an average of 33.44.
Seeking ‘Clarity’ for the Next Generation
In a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Williamson explained his decision, focusing on the team’s future development:
“It’s the right time for myself and the team. It gives the team clarity for the series moving forward and ahead of their next major focus which is the T20 World Cup,” Williamson said. “There’s so much T20 talent there and the next period will be important to get cricket into these guys and get them ready for the World Cup.”
The retirement will allow the veteran batsman to scale back his international commitments, a move supported by his flexible, “casual” central contract with NZC. Williamson will miss the upcoming T20I and ODI series against the West Indies but remains committed to playing Test and ODI cricket for the Black Caps, with his immediate focus on the Test series beginning in December.
A T20I Legacy of Consistency and Leadership
Williamson’s impact on New Zealand’s T20I side, particularly in global tournaments, has been immense:
- Captaincy: He captained the Black Caps in 75 T20Is.
- World Cup Success: Under his leadership, New Zealand reached the 2021 T20 World Cup Final (where he scored a masterful 85) and the semi-finals in both the 2016 and 2022 editions.
- Batting Prowess: He registered 18 T20I half-centuries, with a high score of 95.
NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink lauded Williamson’s contribution, stating, “Kane’s performances as a player and his service as captain of the T20 side have been nothing short of immense… he will go down as a legend of New Zealand cricket.”
Williamson also offered his full support to current T20I captain Mitchell Santner, saying he would be “supporting from afar” as the new era of Black Caps T20 cricket begins.
Next Steps for Williamson: The 35-year-old is set to prepare for the three-match Test series against the West Indies, starting in Christchurch on December 2. He is expected to continue playing in T20 franchise leagues worldwide.
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