TAROUBA, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – JUNE 14: Kane Williamson of New Zealand looks on during the ICC Men’s … [+]
Kane Williamson has stepped down as captain of New Zealand’s white-ball teams and turned down a central contact for 2024-25 following their group stage exit from the T20 World Cup.
The Black Caps finished third in the World Cup T20 group behind Afghanistan and the West Indies, achieving two wins and two defeats which were not enough for a place in the Super Eights stage.
The early exit was unexpected for the Kiwis, who have reached the semi-finals of the three previous T20 World Cups and the 2021 final.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said Williamson, who has played more than 350 international matches, will give up his central contract and captaincy in a move he hopes will prolong his international career.
Williamson opted to sign a contract outside New Zealand in January, which will rule him out for part of the summer at home. But the 33-year-old is still committed to playing for New Zealand and remains open to accepting a contract in the future.
“Helping drive the team forward across all formats is something I’m very passionate about and want to continue contributing to,” said Williamson.
“However, pursuing an opportunity overseas over the summer in New Zealand means I am unable to accept a central contract offer.”
New Zealand won the ICC World Test Championship in 2021 under Kane Williamson. (Photo by Alex … [+]
Neither Williamson nor the New Zealand board have mentioned where he intends to play in January. Australia, UAE, South Africa and Bangladesh are expected to host T20 leagues during this month.
“Playing for New Zealand is something I value and my desire to give back to the team remains unchanged,” added Williamson, who steps down as Test captain in 2022.
“However, my life outside of cricket has changed – spending more time with my family and enjoying experiences with them at home or abroad is something that is even more important to me.”
Williamson led New Zealand in 40 Tests, 91 ODIs and 75 T20Is. Under him, the Kiwis won the World Test Championship in 2021 and reached the finals of the ODI World Cup in 2019 and the T20 World Cup in 2021.
‘The biggest mass of all time’
Kane Williamson has played over 350 international matches for New Zealand. (Photo by Hannah … [+]
New Zealand Council CEO Scott Weenink said Williamson had earned the right to take time off to pursue other goals, including family-oriented priorities.
“We have very little international cricket in New Zealand until January and outside of that period it will still be available for the Black Caps,” Weenink said.
“NZC has a strong preference for selecting centrally contracted players for the Black Caps, however, we are happy to make an exception for our greatest batsman of all time – especially as he remains so committed to the team.
“I know it seems a little counterintuitive, but I am very encouraged by this development,” he concluded.
