Kane Williamson Bids Farewell to T20Is, Eyes Test Cricket Future

In a poignant announcement from Sydney on Sunday, November 2, 2025, New Zealand’s celebrated batsman Kane Williamson declared his retirement from Twenty20 international cricket, marking the end of a distinguished 14-year stint in the shortest format while confirming his availability for the upcoming Test series against West Indies.

The 35-year-old, who first donned the Black Caps jersey in a T20 against Zimbabwe in 2011, featured in 93 matches, amassing 2,575 runs at an average that underscored his consistency. His tally includes 18 half-centuries, highlighted by a valiant 85 in the 2021 T20 World Cup final against Australia, which ended in defeat.

Williamson, who led New Zealand in 75 T20Is, guided the team to the 2021 final and semi-finals in 2016 and 2022. Reflecting on his journey, he expressed deep gratitude: “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 described the decision as timely for both personal reasons and the squad’s evolution. “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,” Williamson said. “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.”

No longer holding a central contract with New Zealand Cricket, Williamson remains undecided on one-day internationals but has committed to the three-Test home series against West Indies starting in December.

ALSO READ : India vs South Africa, Women’s ODI World Cup Final: Key battles, X-Factors and Where this Title Clash Could Turn

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink praised Williamson’s contributions: “Kane’s performances as a player and his service as captain of the T20 side have been nothing short of immense. His runs in all conditions around the world reflect the world class batsman that he is and are equally matched by the influence of his leadership on and off the field.”

Weenink urged fans to attend the Tests: “With Kane committed to play the West Indies test series in December, I’d encourage all Kiwis to take the opportunity to get out and witness one of our greatest ever cricketers play.”