GUWAHATI: Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from all international cricket with immediate effect on Friday, June 12, bringing the curtain down on one of the most celebrated careers in the sport's modern era.
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The 35-year-old played his final match for New Zealand in the first Test against England at Lord's and has opted not to continue in the remainder of the ongoing series, where the Black Caps trail 1-0.
Williamson retires as New Zealand's highest run-scorer across all formats, amassing 19,346 runs in 378 international appearances between 2010 and 2026. His tally includes 48 centuries and six double centuries, cementing his place among the game's greats.
In Test cricket, he leaves as New Zealand's most prolific batter, scoring 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06, including 33 centuries in 110 matches.
In a statement released by New Zealand Cricket, Williamson said the decision had been under consideration for some time.
"I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time," he 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."
Williamson made his Test debut against India in Ahmedabad in November 2010 and quickly established himself as one of the world's finest batters.
Beyond his remarkable achievements with the bat, Williamson earned widespread respect for his calm and composed leadership. He captained New Zealand from 2016 to 2024, leading the side to two ICC World Cup finals, three semi-finals, and the country's biggest modern cricketing success, the inaugural ICC World Test Championship title in 2021.
Reflecting on the future of New Zealand cricket, Williamson expressed confidence in the next generation of players.
"I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading," he said.
"There's a huge amount of talent, and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team. It's a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long."
Williamson's retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, with the batting maestro leaving behind a legacy defined by consistency, humility, leadership and excellence across formats.