In a surprising move, New Zealand cricket shining star Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20 cricket, sending shockwaves through the cricketing world just four months ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. The 35-year-old Williamson has had an outstanding career in 93 T20 internationals, establishing himself as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer with 2,575 runs at an average of 33, including 18 half-centuries.
সকলকে চমকে দিয়ে টি-টোয়েন্টিকে ‘Good Bye’ তারকা ক্রিকেটারের
Making his T20 debut in 2011, Williamson captained New Zealand in 75 matches. Under his leadership, New Zealand reached the semifinals of the T20 World Cup twice (2016 and 2022) and the final once (2021). Williamson stated, “I have been a part of this format for a long time. Every memory and experience associated with it is very special to me. Now I feel it’s the right time for me and the team. This will give clarity for the upcoming series and the team’s next major goal, the T20 World Cup.”
He added, “We currently have very talented players in T20 cricket. In the coming period, it is crucial for these players to play more cricket and prepare for the World Cup. Mitch [Mitchell Santner] is an excellent captain and has managed the team very well. I will always support him from a distance.”
After the 2024 T20 World Cup, Williamson handed over white-ball captaincy to Mitchell Santner. Since then, he has played little international cricket, spending time in franchise leagues and with his family. Recently, he withdrew from the Chappell-Hadlee T20 series against Australia. He also missed matches against England due to a hamstring injury. However, he returned for the ODI series against England after the Champions Trophy final.
There is also curiosity about who Williamson will play with in the future. On November 26, he could play for Northern Districts in a Plunket Shield match against Auckland at Bay Oval. However, his primary focus is now on the three-match Test series against the West Indies, starting December 2 in Christchurch.
Williamson’s retirement announcement poses a new challenge for New Zealand cricket. Without his experience and leadership, the team’s progress will now depend on the new captain.
Kane Williamson has called time on his 93-game T20 International career.
Thank you for everything you gave the team in the shortest format 🖤🤍
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