Kane Williamson steps down as New Zealand's captain, declines national contract

NEW DELHI: Kane Williamson has announced that he is stepping down as captain of New Zealand's white-ball teams and will not sign a national contract for the 2024/25 season.
Williamson took the decision after the Black Caps' early exit from the T20 World Cup. New Zealand reached the semi-finals in the last three T20 World Cups and also played the 2021 final but has yet to secure a ICC white-ball title.
Another New Zealand cricketer, Lockie Ferguson, a fast bowler, has also stated that he will not accept a national contract, according to New Zealand Cricket (NZC).
Williamson, one of the world’s top batsmen with over 350 international appearances in Tests, ODIs, and T20s, will continue to play for New Zealand in all three formats. However, he will be unavailable for part of the home summer due to a new contract abroad starting in January.

"Pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer," said the 33-year-old in a statement.
"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," Williamson added.
Williamson is expected to join a T20 franchise league overseas, with possible destinations including Australia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates. He had previously relinquished the Test captaincy to Tim Southee in 2022.

NZC said Williamson would still be available for eight Tests leading up to Christmas and the ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan from February to March. The board emphasized that Williamson's decision to opt out of a contract would not affect his chances of selection, which is a shift from its typical policy that favors contracted players.
"We’re happy to make an exception for our greatest ever batter – especially as he remains so committed to the team. This is a good way to help keep Kane in the international game so that he continues to play a major role for the Black Caps – both now and in the years to come," said NZC CEO Scott Weenink.