Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his immediate retirement from all international cricket, a decision that sees him withdraw from the ongoing Test series against England. The 35-year-old featured in the first Test at Lord's, contributing scores of a duck and 18, but will not participate in the remaining two matches, with the series set to resume at The Oval on 17 June.
Williamson concludes a distinguished international career as New Zealand's most prolific batter across all formats. He amassed a remarkable 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double centuries, over 378 appearances for the Black Caps between 2010 and 2026. In Test cricket, he stands as New Zealand's leading run-scorer, accumulating 9,515 runs at an impressive average of 54.06, with 33 centuries from 110 matches.
Beyond his individual batting achievements, Williamson also enjoyed a highly successful tenure as captain. He led New Zealand to the finals of the 2019 Cricket World Cup and the 2021 T20 World Cup. A crowning moment of his captaincy was guiding the team to victory in the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021, cementing his legacy as one of the nation's most impactful cricketing figures.
Explaining his decision, Williamson, who had previously retired from T20 Internationals in November, stated, "I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time. 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."
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter paid tribute to Williamson's significant contribution, highlighting his "legacy" and lasting impact on the Black Caps' culture. Walter remarked, "His numbers and batting skills speak for themselves, but it's what he means to this Black Caps team, as well as world cricket – that will be his legacy. His impact on the culture and standards of this team will remain embedded in its DNA."