New Zealand legend and all-time leading run scorer Kane Williamson has called time on his international career, bringing an end to a sensational 16-year international career. During his illustrious career, Williamson represented New Zealand in 378 matches across formats, amassing 19,346 runs, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries. Having retired from T20 internationals in November last year, Williamson said it was the right time to draw the curtains.
"I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time. I've always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing I've given it my all in every match I've played for New Zealand," Williamson said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.
"Continuing with anything less wouldn't be right and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms.
"I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. There's a huge amount of talent, and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team.
"It's a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart."
Williamson played 110 Tests for the Black Caps, scoring 9,515 runs, including 38 half-centuries and 33 centuries. In the ODIs, he has impressive numbers, having scored 7,256 runs from 175 matches. He has 47 fifties and 15 hundreds in ODIs. Williamson also led New Zealand in 40 Tests, 91 ODIs and 75 T20Is between 2016 and 2024. And it was under his leadership that New Zealand made it to the final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the final of the 2021 T20 World Cup.
The former captain played in New Zealand's opening Test of the ongoing three-match series against England. However, he will play no part in the series now. His incredible list of achievements includes being the ICC Cricketer of 2015 and Test player of 2019, while also winning the Sir Richard Hadlee Medal four times.