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Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20Is. The announcement came after the completion of the three-ODI series against England, months ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 on Indian soil. Williamson believes there is much talent in the T20 group and it is the right time for him to make the call.
"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," Williamson said. "It's the right time for myself and the team. It gives the team clarity for the series moving forward and ahead of their next major focus which is the T20 World Cup.
"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."
How New Zealand head coach reacted to Williamson’s retirement
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has supported Williamson's decision. He is looking ahead to the Test series against West Indies at home which will kick off their World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle.
"I don't think you can underestimate [his] value in all aspects," Walter added. "Obviously, performance is one thing, but I think it's probably the lesser of all the things that he brings to the team. A magnificent team man.
"He's a real sounding board for the guys in the team. He's experienced a hell of a lot. He's delivered incredible performances under pressure in World Cup finals. There's a whole package there that obviously the team loses, but respectful of his decision."
Williamson backs Santner
Williamson has lauded Mitchell Santner as leader of the side in the white-ball formats.
"Mitch is a brilliant captain and leader - he's really come into his own with this team," Williamson said. "It's now their time to push the Black Caps forward in this format and I'll be supporting from afar."
Williamson’s T20I numbers
Williamson retires as New Zealand's second-highest run-scorer in T20Is. From 93 T20Is, he has scored 2,575 runs at an average of 33.44 and strike rate of 123.08. He has 18 half-centuries to his name in T20Is.
His last T20I appearance was against Papua New Guinea in T20 World Cup 2024. In the run chase, he remained unbeaten for 18 as New Zealand won by seven wickets.
However, he will continue to play T20 franchise cricket around the world.
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