Kane Williamson on Wednesday (June 19) relinquished the captaincy of the New Zealand white-ball teams and also declined a central contract from the board for the 2024-25 season.
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed the decision made by Williamson on their official website and claimed that the ace batter made the call to prolong his international career.
Williamson’s decision comes in the wake of Blackcaps' dismal campaign at the T20 World Cup 2024, where they faced the group-stage exit after suffering losses to the West Indies and Afghanistan.
"Kane Williamson has re-emphasised his long-term commitment to the BLACKCAPS in all three formats - despite declining a central contract for the 2024-25 year."
"The veteran of over 350 internationals will forgo a central contract and the captaincy of the BLACKCAPS white ball teams in a move he hopes will extend his international career."
"The 33-year-old has opted to take advantage of a particular set of circumstances this summer in which very little international cricket is being played in New Zealand during the January window," read the statement from NZC.
Williamson stated that his decision shouldn't be interpreted as him losing interest in international cricket while adding that he is ready to accept a central contract 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,” he said.
“However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer.”
For Williamson, spending time with family is something that's more important to him at the moment.
“Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure, and my desire to give back to the team remains undiminished."
“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.”
Besides Williamson, Lockie Ferguson has also indicated that he won’t accept a central contract offer when the contracting process opens.
