Kane Williamson, former New Zealand captain and one of cricket’s leading batsmen, announced his immediate retirement from all international cricket following the first Test against England at Lord's on June 12, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. He played 378 international matches for New Zealand from 2010 until today, leaving behind a career total of 19,346 runs across formats including 48 centuries and 6 double centuries [1, 2, 3].
Williamson’s Test record is among the best in the game’s history. He scored 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06 in 110 Tests, with 33 centuries to his name [1, 2, 3]. He made his Test debut in Ahmedabad against India on November 25, 2010 [2, 3]. Williamson captained New Zealand across all formats from 2016 until stepping down from Test captaincy in 2022 [1, 2, 3]. Under his leadership, New Zealand won 22 Tests and he scored 11 centuries as captain [2, 3]. In 2021, he led New Zealand to their first World Test Championship title [1, 2, 3].
Williamson retired from T20 internationals in November 2025 but continued playing Tests and ODIs until this month [1]. At Lord's on June 12, he scored 0 and 18 runs in his final Test before announcing retirement and withdrawing from the remainder of the three-Test series against England [1]. New Zealand called up opening batsman Will Young, who has a Test average of 31.97 in 23 matches and prior experience playing in England, to replace him for the remaining two Tests [4].
Williamson earned numerous awards, including ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2015, ICC Test Player of the Year in 2019, and four Sir Richard Hadlee Medals during his career [2, 3]. Rob Walter, New Zealand head coach, praised Williamson’s leadership and impact: "His impact on the culture and standards of this team will remain embedded in its DNA. Kane's always put the team first... An incredible player, awesome teammate, a wonderful leader and a fantastic ambassador for our sport." [1]
In his retirement statement, Williamson said, "I've always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing I've given it my all in every match I've played for New Zealand. Continuing with anything less wouldn't be right and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms. I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. There's a huge amount of talent, and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team." [1]
Williamson's retirement marks the end of a landmark career for New Zealand cricket. Will Young will make his way into the squad for the second Test starting June 17 in Leeds, making his presence felt in the ongoing series against England [4].
