Kane Williamson says it ‘felt like the right time’ to step down as New Zealand Test captain, with the Black Caps confirming Tim Southee as his replacement.
Williamson won 22 of his 40 Tests in charge of the side after replacing current England head coach Brendon McCullum as New Zealand captain in 2016.
The highlight of Williamson’s tenure came in 2021 when New Zealand were crowned World Test Champions, beating India in the inaugural final at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton.
Williamson, who will remain in charge of the one-day and T20 teams, also led New Zealand to the World Cup final in 2019 and T20 World Cup final last year, which they lost to England and Australia respectively.
One of the best batters New Zealand have ever produced, Williamson scored 3,331 runs as Black Caps captain at an average of more than 57.
‘Captaining the Black Caps in Test cricket has been an incredibly special honour,’ Williamson, 32, said.
‘Captaincy comes with an increased workload on and off the field and at this stage of my career I feel the time is right for this decision.’
Southee, 34, has been a mainstay in the New Zealand side for the past decade, making 346 appearances for the Kiwis across all formats.
The pace bowler becomes New Zealand’s 31st Test captain and begins his tenure with a two-match series against Pakistan, starting on Boxing Day.
Southee said: ‘It’s been a surreal few days and it’s just a massive honour to be appointed as Test captain.
‘I love Test cricket, it’s the ultimate challenge and I’m really excited by the opportunity to lead the team in this format.’
MORE : England star Ollie Pope hoping to make No.3 spot his own in Pakistan
MORE : Abuse and threats drove me out of Britain, says cricketer Azeem Rafiq
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Share your story or advertise with us: Whatsapp: +2347068606071 Email: info@newspotng.com
