Kane Williamson has shocked the cricket world by declining New Zealand’s central contract for the 2024-25 season. Despite this, he remains committed to New Zealand cricket but has also stepped down as captain.
Williamson, 33, plans to play in an overseas league during the New Zealand summer, making him unavailable for the national team during that period. However, he confirmed his availability for New Zealand outside this timeframe.
“Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I’m very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards,” Williamson stated. “Playing for New Zealand is something I treasure. My life outside cricket has changed, and spending more time with my family is important to me.”
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) CEO Scott Weenink expressed support for Williamson, stating, “We have very little international cricket in New Zealand through January, and outside that period he’s still available for the BLACKCAPS. We’re happy to make an exception for our greatest-ever batter.”
Williamson’s decision comes after New Zealand’s first-round exit in the T20 World Cup. Following this, fast bowler Trent Boult announced his retirement from T20Is. Williamson had already stepped down from Test captaincy in 2022 and was leading the team only in limited-overs cricket. Now, New Zealand will need a new limited-overs captain.
Additionally, pacer Lockie Ferguson has also hinted at not signing the central contract. The final list of centrally contracted players will be announced next month.
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