Kane Williamson opts out of New Zealand central contract; relinquishes white-ball captaincy following T20 WC exit 

Star New Zealand batter Kane Williamson has declined to be part of the national central contract list for the 2024-25 season. He has also opted to step down as captain of the white-ball teams following the Kiwis' group-stage exit at the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA.

Williamson reportedly wishes to extend his international career across all formats and will be available for selection frequently, if not all series, despite not being part of the central contract list. His teammate Trent Boult also opted for a similar path a couple of years ago, and the pacer's focus has since shifted to ICC events, select red-ball assignments, and franchise cricket.

Williamson had a T20 World Cup to forget as a captain and batter as New Zealand suffered losses to Afghanistan and West Indies in Group C to finish with only four points in four matches.

The ace batter stated that his decision does not imply that international cricket is no longer his focus, and remains open to the fact that he might accept a central contract in the coming years.

“Helping push the team forward across the formats is something I’m very passionate about and something I want to keep contributing towards. However, pursuing an overseas opportunity during the New Zealand summer means I’m unable to accept a central contract offer," Williamson said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.

"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 added

Williamson had recently addressed his T20I future, stating that he would consider his options before making a decision.

New Zealand Cricket is now placed with the arduous task of finding a new white-ball skipper. Williamson leaves behind an incredible legacy as a skipper, leading the team to the finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 T20 World Cup.

He also guided New Zealand to silverware in the form of the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.

Lockie Ferguson also opts out of the central contract list along with Williamson

Speedster Lockie Ferguson, who is already involved with several franchises across the globe, is also set to decline a central contract when New Zealand Cricket begins the process of enlisting players.

Having played only a solitary Test, he is considered only for white-ball formats. He recently created history by bowling four maidens in the Blackcaps' win over Papua New Guinea.