New Zealand batting stalwart Kane Williamson has announced his immediate retirement from T20 International cricket. The decision comes just days before New Zealand’s five-match T20I series against the West Indies. He was not selected in the squad for this series.
The 35-year-old former captain ends his T20I career after 93 matches, amassing 2,575 runs at an average of 33. He retires as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer in the men’s T20I format. He has 18 half-centuries and a highest score of 95.
Williamson made his T20I debut in 2011. He captained the side in 75 of his 93 appearances. His leadership was instrumental in guiding New Zealand to two T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016 and 2022). Additionally, he led the team to the final in 2021.
Kane Williamson has called time on his 93-game T20 International career.
Thank you for everything you gave the team in the shortest format 🖤🤍
Full story at https://t.co/itPtNwMPLK
📸 @PhotosportNZ pic.twitter.com/wzXz6MuWOF
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 1, 2025In a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Williamson expressed his gratitude for his time in the T20I side. “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 said.
Williamson confirmed that the retirement provides clarity for the team as they build towards the next T20 World Cup. He will also miss the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. This is to focus entirely on preparing for the three-Test series, which begins on December 2.
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The prolific batter, who has over 19,000 runs across all international formats, affirmed his continued commitment to the New Zealand team in Tests and ODIs. He also congratulated the new T20I captain, Mitchell Santner, stating he will be “supporting from afar.”
Williamson is expected to continue playing in franchise T20 leagues worldwide. He has recently been appointed strategic advisor for the IPL’s Lucknow Super Giants for the 2026 season.
