New Zealand’s influential batsman, Kane Williamson, has announced his retirement from T20 International cricket, focusing on the longer formats of the game. After a distinguished career spanning 93 T20Is since 2011, including captaining the side for 75 matches, Williamson has opted to step down from the shortest international format. His final T20I appearance was in the previous year’s T20 World Cup. Williamson cited the need to provide clarity for the team’s T20I strategy and selection, particularly with the next T20 World Cup on the horizon in just three months. He stated that it felt like the ‘right time’ to move on from T20Is, allowing younger players to gain more experience. ‘I’m so grateful for the memories and experiences,’ Williamson commented, reflecting on his time in the format. He plans to continue playing ODIs and Test matches for the Black Caps. As he exits T20Is, Williamson leaves behind a remarkable legacy, ranking as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in the format with 2,575 runs. His captaincy saw New Zealand reach multiple T20 World Cup semi-finals and a final. Williamson remains committed to T20 franchise leagues and is set to participate in an upcoming Test series against the West Indies.
