New Zealand’s batting maestro Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from T20 internationals, calling time on a stellar career in the shortest format to give the team “clarity” ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup.

The 35-year-old right-handed batter, who made his T20I debut in 2011, leaves the format as New Zealand’s second-highest run-scorer with 2,575 runs from 93 matches at an average of 33.4. His tally includes 18 half-centuries and a highest score of 95.

Williamson captained New Zealand in 75 games, leading them to the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in 2016 and 2022, and the final in 2021 — where he scored 85 in a losing effort against Australia.

“It’s right time for myself and team”

In his retirement statement, Williamson said stepping away would allow new players to prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

“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,” he said.

He praised the team’s rising talent, adding, “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.”

Transitioning to new phase

Williamson, who recently signed a “casual” contract with New Zealand Cricket, has chosen to cut back on his international commitments to focus more on family and franchise cricket.

He will not feature in the upcoming home T20 or ODI series against the West Indies but remains available for the three-match Test series in December. With 9,276 Test runs — the most by any New Zealander — he continues to be a vital part of the red-ball setup.

NZC pays tribute to modern great

New Zealand Cricket Chief Executive Scott Weenink lauded Williamson’s contribution to the national team.

“We’ve made it clear to Kane he has our full support as he reaches the back end of his illustrious career,” Weenink said. “He will go down as a legend of New Zealand cricket.”