Kane Williamson Steps Down as NZ captain, Declines Central Contract
Kane Williamson has announced his resignation from the captaincy of the New Zealand team and will not be signing the next national contract (2024-25 season). This decision came after the team’s early exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. Talking about the last three T20 World Cups, New Zealand has reached the semi-finals in all of them but has not secured an ICC white-ball title till now.
Williamson’s Announcement
Williamson announced his statement and assured his commitment to the team while also acknowledging his priorities. "Pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I'm unable to accept a central contract offer," he said. "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."
Williamson is anticipated to feature in several overseas T20 franchise leagues, possibly in Australia, South Africa and the UAE. Even though he has relinquished his captaincy, he would still be playing for the team in all three formats, except for part of the home summer because of a prior overseas contract.
Williamson is one of the top batsmen in the world and has played in over 350 international matches, including Tests, ODIs and T20s. Previously, he also relinquished his Test captaincy in 2022, which was then occupied by Tim Southee.
New Zealand Cricket Board’s Response
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) clarified that Williamson will be playing eight Test matches before Christmas as well as the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan (February to March). The board also stated that his withdrawal from the contract would not deter him from being selected for the team.
"We're happy to make an exception for our greatest-ever batter - especially as he remains so committed to the team. This is a good way to help keep Kane in the international game so that he continues to play a major role for the Black Caps - both now and in the years to come," the NZC CEO Scott Weenink quoted.
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