SRINAGAR: New Zealand batting great Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished 16-year career during which he became the country’s leading international run-scorer and one of the most respected figures in world cricket.
“It’s a team I love and it’s so dear to my heart”
Thank you for the memories, Kane 🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/u1qBOMEfzy
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 12, 2026
Confirming the decision on Friday, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said Williamson’s retirement marks the end of a career spanning 378 international matches, during which he set numerous batting records and played a pivotal role in some of the nation’s greatest achievements.
“The 35-year-old finishes as New Zealand’s all-time leading international run-scorer with 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries,” NZC said in an official statement.
An exceptional career, by the numbers. pic.twitter.com/52SZsQhY8q
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 12, 2026
Williamson made his international debut in 2010 and went on to become the face of New Zealand cricket across formats. His finest achievement as captain came in 2021 when he led the Black Caps to victory over India in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final, securing New Zealand’s first major global cricket title.
He also captained New Zealand to successive ICC Cricket World Cup finals in 2015 and 2019, although the team finished runners-up on both occasions.
“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.
“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.”
Reflecting on the future of the national side, Williamson expressed confidence in the next generation of players.
“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,” he said.
In Test cricket, Williamson played 110 matches and scored 9,515 runs at an average of nearly 55, including 33 centuries and 38 half-centuries. He also registered 15 centuries in One-Day Internationals and established himself as one of the most prolific batters of his era.
His retirement closes a remarkable chapter in New Zealand cricket, ending the international career of a player widely regarded as one of the game’s modern greats.
