Kane Williamson steps down from New Zealand captaincy and declines central contract for 2024-25

New Zealand’s star batter Kane Williamson has made a significant decision, stepping down from the T20I and ODI captaincy while declining a central contract for the 2024-25 season.

Kane Williamson prioritizes family and overseas cricket leagues

This move prioritizes both his desire for more time with family and the pursuit of an overseas cricketing opportunity.

Notably, he is set to be picked by a top team at the SA20 and might also feature in the upcoming Major League Cricket (MCL) in the USA.

“Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I’m very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards,” Williamson said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) release. “However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer.”

Williamson open to accept the central central in future

Despite this decision, Williamson remains committed to representing New Zealand and accepting a contract in the future.

“Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished,” he said. “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.”

This announcement follows a less-than-stellar T20 World Cup 2024 campaign for New Zealand, where they failed to reach the semifinals for the first time since 2014. Williamson remained unclear about his future in T20Is, stating, “On, I don’t know. We’ll see where things land,” when asked about his involvement in the 2026 edition.

By choosing a casual contract, Williamson will receive a retainer while in the camp with the Black Caps, along with the usual match fees. He is expected to be available for most Tests, potentially missing only the September match against Afghanistan in India (which lacks World Test Championship significance).

The Black Caps’ forthcoming schedule includes tours of Sri Lanka (Tests and ODIs) and India, followed by a home series against England starting in November. Williamson will likely miss the white-ball matches against Sri Lanka before rejoining the team for the home season opener.

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June 19, 2024 at 08:45AM