New Zealand's Kane Williamson Steps Down From Captaincy Role

New Zealand's Kane Williamson has declined the central contract for the 2024–25 year and has stepped down from white-ball captaincy. In a statement released on Wednesday, the Black Caps said that Williamson made this decision in a move he hopes will extend his international career. The announcement comes following New Zealand's disappointing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

The New Zealand cricket board said that Kane Williamson will be available for the team and will play eight World Test Championship matches before Christmas. The Black Caps also mentioned that Williamson's decision should not be interpreted as a sign he was losing interest in international cricket; instead, he remains open to potentially accepting a central contract offer in the future. “Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I’m very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards. However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer," 33-year-old Williamson said in the statement. 

Scott Weenink, the NZC CEO, described Kane Williamson as a great player. He also said that Williamson, who led New Zealand in 40 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 75 T20Is, earned the right to take some time off to focus on other goals, including family-oriented priorities. “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,” Scott Weenink added.