Kane Williamson has stepped down as the captain of the New Zealand white-ball teams and refused to accept the central contract for the 2024-25 season on June 19, Wednesday. The New Zealand cricket board revealed the new on their website and claimed that Kane has taken this step to prolong his career.

New Zealand were below-par in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 and failed to make it to the Super 8 stage. They lost to Afghanistan and the West Indies in the league matches.

“Kane Williamson is committed to New Zealand cricket despite declining a central contract.

“The veteran, who has been a part of 350 internationals, will forgo a central contract and the captaincy of the white ball teams to extend his international career.”

“The 33-year-old has opted to take advantage of circumstances this summer as very little international cricket will be being played in New Zealand,” read the statement from New Zealand cricket.

Williamson said that he hasn’t lost interest in international cricket and he is ready to accept a central contract in the future.

“I want to push the team forward across formats. I want to pursue an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer so I am unable to accept a central contract.

Kane wants to spend more time with the family.

“Playing cricket for New Zealand is the most important thing but I also have a family. I want to spend more time with my family members at home or abroad.

Lockie Ferguson has also decided to decline a central contract from the New Zealand cricket board.