New Zealand's star batsman Kane Williamson draws curtains on international career

Kane Williamson (Pic: X/@ICC)

New Zealand's star batsman Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket.

The official social media handle of New Zealand Cricket shared a post, with a caption, "One of our greatest ever, signing off. Kane Williamson has announced his retirement from international cricket effective immediately".

In a statement released by New Zealand Cricket, Williamson said, "I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time. 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".

The Tauranga-born 35-year-old cricketer also expressed gratitude for being a part of the "Black Caps".

"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. It's a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart," added the veteran of 110 Test matches.

Kane Williamson's career statistics with New Zealand

Williamson represented New Zealand in 110 Test matches, in which he scored 9515 runs, including 33 tons and 38 half-centuries. Williamson also made 175 ODI appearances and accumulated 7256 runs, with the help of 15 centuries and 47 half-centuries.

The former right-handed batsman featured in 93 T20I games. He concluded his shortest format career with 2575 runs, including 18 half-centuries.

Apart from these impressive numbers, Williamson is also placed in the second position on the list of players with the most nineties in their ODI career. In 175 ODI matches, he registered nine nineties to his name.