Kane Williamson Declines New Zealand Cricket Contract, Will Step Down As NZ Captain

Kane Williamson clarified that his current decision to step away from white-ball cricket and decline the central contract does not stem from a loss of passion for playing international cricket.

Kane Williamson clarified that he remains open to accepting central contracts in the future.

Source : PTI

Veteran New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson has made a big decision about his international career following New Zealand's chaotic campaign in ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024 in USA.

The 33-year-old has chosen to step away from playing white-ball cricket (T20Is and ODIs) for New Zealand cricket team, prioritising Test matches and overseas T20 franchise leagues. This decision led to Williamson declining the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) central contract, which requires players to be available for domestic Super Smash matches and national team duties.

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Kane Williamson clarified that his current decision to step away from white-ball cricket and decline the central contract does not stem from a loss of passion for playing international cricket. The veteran asserted that he remains open to accepting central contracts in the future.

"Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished," Williamson said. "However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer."

New Zealand Cricket chief executive Scott Weenink fully supported Kane Williamson's decision. Weenink feels the move provides New Zealand batting great flexibility in his playing commitments. Apart from Williamson, Lockie Ferguson has also rejected the central contract from NZC.

"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," Weenink said in a statement.

Kane Williamson's tenure as the white-ball captain for New Zealand has come to an end. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players for the Kiwis, Williamson has amassed over 350 international appearances across Test, ODI, and T20I formats. His leadership transitioned in late 2022 when Tim Southee took over as New Zealand's test captain.