Kane Williamson steps down as New Zealand captain after T20 World Cup debacle
The Hindu
Kane Williamson steps down as New Zealand captain, opts out of contract, focusing on family and T20 franchise league.
Kane Williamson has stepped down as captain of New Zealand's white-ball teams and opted out of a national contract for the 2024/25 season following the Black Caps' early exit from the T20 World Cup.
Williamson's decision marks the end of an era for a New Zealand team which made the semi-finals of the previous three T20 World Cups and the 2021 final but ultimately missed out on a maiden white-ball title.
ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: What went wrong for Pakistan, Sri Lanka and New Zealand?
Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has also indicated he will not take up a national contract, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said on Wednesday, following the team's failure to make the Super Eight phase at the ongoing tournament.
One of the world's top batsmen and a campaigner of more than 350 internationals in Tests, one-day and T20 cricket, Williamson will continue to play for New Zealand in all three formats.
However, he has opted to take up a contract outside of New Zealand in January, meaning he will be unavailable for part of the home summer.
"Pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer," the 33-year-old said in a statement.
Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh Chowta demands Vande Bharat Express service between Mangaluru and Mumbai
MP Brijesh Chowta urges Railway Ministry for Vande Bharat Express between Mangaluru and Mumbai to reduce travel time.