New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, drawing the curtain on a remarkable 16-year career that cemented his place as one of the finest batters of his generation.
The 35-year-old made the decision midway through New Zealand’s ongoing three-Test series in England, following scores of 0 and 18 in the first Test defeat at Lord’s. He will take no further part in the remaining two matches at The Oval and Trent Bridge.
“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 New Zealand Cricket 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.”
Williamson finishes as New Zealand’s all-time leading Test run-scorer with 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06 across 110 matches. He also amassed 7,256 ODI runs in 175 appearances and 2,575 T20I runs in 93 matches. As captain, the pinnacle of his leadership came when he guided New Zealand to victory in the inaugural World Test Championship final against India in 2021, the crowning moment of a storied career.
Williamson had not held a central contract with New Zealand Cricket since June 2024, managing his availability on a series-by-series basis while balancing T20 franchise commitments. NZC is expected to name a replacement for the remainder of the England tour shortly.
