Kane Williamson has opted out of a central contract for the upcoming 2024-25 year and has resigned from his role as the white-ball captain to prolong his international cricket career, as stated by New Zealand Cricket on Wednesday.
The decision comes after New Zealand's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where they failed to reach the semifinals of a men's World Cup for the first time since 2014.
“Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I’m very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards,” Williamson was quoted by NZC. “However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer.”
Williamson remains committed to representing New Zealand, with plans to participate in eight World Test Championship matches before Christmas and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan scheduled for February-March.
Despite declining a central contract, the seasoned player, who has featured in over 350 international matches, remains open to the possibility of accepting one in the future.
“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,” he said.
The 33-year-old cricketer boasts 165 ODI caps and 93 T20I caps. He led New Zealand in 40 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 75 T20Is, during which he guided the team to triumph in the World Test Championship 2021 and reached the finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup 2021. Earlier this year, he celebrated his 100th Test appearance.
NZC CEO Scott Weenink acknowledged Williamson's exceptional contribution to New Zealand cricket and supported his decision to take time off to pursue personal goals, including spending more time with his family.
“This is a good way to help keep Kane in the international game so that he continues to play a major role for the BLACKCAPS — both now and in the years to come. Weenink remarked.
“We have very little international cricket in New Zealand through January and outside that period he’s still available for the BLACKCAPS. NZC has a strong preference to select centrally contracted players for the BLACKCAPS, however, we’re happy to make an exception for our greatest-ever batter – especially as he remains so committed to the team.
“I know it sounds a bit counterintuitive, but I’m very encouraged by this development,” said Weenink.
Additionally, fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has also indicated his intention to decline a central contract offer during the upcoming contracting process.
The final roster of central contract offers is expected to be unveiled next month.
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