Kane Williamson Retires from T20 Internationals to Focus on ODI and Test Career

Christchurch, Nov 2025 : Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20 Internationals, ending a distinguished 93-match career to concentrate on extending his longevity in ODIs and Test cricket. The decision, confirmed by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Saturday, comes just months before the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Williamson, who will turn his attention fully toward red-ball preparations, has also withdrawn from the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies in order to focus on New Zealand’s three-Test home series in December.

Making his T20I debut in 2011, Williamson went on to captain New Zealand 75 times in the format. Under his leadership, the BlackCaps reached two ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016 and 2022) and finished runners-up in the 2021 edition. Regarded as one of the most consistent and technically sound batters of his generation, the 35-year-old concludes his T20I career as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in the format, amassing 2,575 runs at an impressive average of 33, including 18 half-centuries and a top score of 95.

Reflecting on his decision, Williamson expressed gratitude for his years in the shortest format. “It’s something that I’ve loved being a part of for a long period of time and I’m so grateful for the memories and experiences,” he said in a statement. He added that stepping aside was the “right time” for himself and for the team, noting that clarity in leadership will be crucial as New Zealand prepare for their next major T20 assignment.

“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,” Williamson said. He praised newly appointed T20I captain Mitchell Santner, describing him as “a brilliant captain and leader” who has “really come into his own with this team.” Williamson added that he would continue supporting the BlackCaps “from afar.”

Despite retiring from T20Is, Williamson remains firmly committed to New Zealand cricket, keeping his future in ODIs and Tests open-ended. His immediate focus is preparing for the upcoming West Indies Test series, beginning December 2 in Christchurch.

“I’ve got such deep care for this team,” he said. “The BlackCaps is a special place and one you want to give yourself to and get the most out of yourself for. It’s a journey and a pursuit, and that’s what I love about the international game and this environment.” He also acknowledged the ongoing support from NZC and head coach Rob Walter, saying he intended to maintain open communication regarding his long-term plans.

NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink commended Williamson’s leadership and immense contribution to New Zealand’s T20 side. “Kane’s performances as a player and his service as captain of the T20 side have been nothing short of immense,” Weenink said. He highlighted Williamson’s memorable innings of 85 in the 2021 T20 World Cup final, describing it as “one of the more special T20I innings played by a New Zealander, albeit in a losing cause.”

Weenink noted that the T20 squad achieved significant consistency and success under Williamson and that he leaves the team “in good health.” He stressed that NZC fully respects Williamson’s decision and reiterated that the veteran batter has earned the right to determine how he concludes his ODI and Test careers.

“We’ve made it clear to Kane he has our full support as he reaches the back end of his illustrious career,” Weenink added.

While Williamson’s international T20 days have come to an end, he will continue to play franchise T20 cricket around the world — ensuring fans will still see him in the format where he has created so many iconic moments.