Kane Williamson Steps Down As New Zealand Captain, Declines Central Contract After T20 World Cup Disappointment

Kane Williamson, after expressing uncertainty about his T20I future, resigned as New Zealand's white-ball captain and declined the central contract for the 2024-25 season. However, both Williamson and New Zealand Cricket emphasized that this does not mark the conclusion of his illustrious international career.

Williamson will continue to be available for all three formats, as he indicated in the post-match press conference following New Zealand's last T20 World Cup game. However, his primary focus will be on the World Test Championship.

Williamson's decision comes following New Zealand's unexpected group-stage exit from the T20 World Cup, which came after losses to Afghanistan and the West Indies.

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New Zealand Cricket stated that Kane Williamson remains dedicated to representing the Black Caps at the international level. The 33-year-old seized upon a unique set of circumstances this summer, with very little international cricket scheduled in New Zealand during the January window.

Apart from that month, he will be available for the eight World Test Championship matches before Christmas and will participate in the ICC Champions Trophy tournament in Pakistan in February-March. However, his future in T20Is remains uncertain.

Williamson clarified that his decision should not be seen as a loss of interest in international cricket. On the contrary, he expressed openness to potentially accepting a central contract offer in the future. Representing New Zealand remained a top priority for him.

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