Veteran New Zealand batter Kane Williamson had stepped down as New Zealand’s red-ball captain a couple of years ago and Tim Southee had replaced him. The legendary batter continued to lead the team in the two white-ball formats as well. However, after their early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024 in the first round, Williamson decided to quit captaincy in white-ball cricket also.
Under the captaincy of Williamson, New Zealand managed to reach the finals of three ICC events – the 2019 ODI World Cup, the 2021 T20 World Cup as well, and the inaugural World Test Championship final, where they won the title as well. Meanwhile, Williamson not only left captaincy but also declined a central contract for the 2024-25 season as well. However, he also mentioned that playing for New Zealand remains his priority.
On Friday, June 21, he took to social media and wrote a heartfelt message, recalling his days as the leader of New Zealand.
“An honour and a privilege to have captained this side. After 8 years, it’s time to hand it over. Plenty of ups and downs, but all part of a wonderful journey with a great group of people. Excited for what’s next for this team and the cricket we have coming up,” Williamson wrote on his official Instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
“Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished. My life outside cricket has changed, however. Spending more time with my family and enjoying experiences with them at home or abroad is something that’s even more important to me,” said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) release as well.
However, New Zealand will return to action in October when they tour to India to play a three-match Test series. The matches will be played in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, respectively as well.
