Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan lauded New Zealand batting maestro Kane Williamson as a "calm storm" in T20I cricket following the 35-year-old's immediate retirement from the shortest format on Sunday. Williamson, one of the game's most elegant stroke-makers, bows out after 93 matches, leaving behind a legacy of composure under pressure and tactical acumen as captain.
Dhawan's tribute on X (formerly Twitter) highlights the mutual respect between the duo, who shared the dressing room during Williamson's stint with IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad. The announcement comes months before the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, allowing New Zealand to blood younger talents ahead of the global showpiece.
Williamson retires as New Zealand's second-highest T20I run-scorer with 2,575 runs at an average of 33, featuring 18 half-centuries and a best of 95 not out. His leadership shone brightest captaining in 75 games and guiding the Black Caps to semi-finals at the 2016 and 2022 T20 World Cups, plus a runners-up finish in 2021—their best-ever performance.
Known for his impeccable timing and ability to anchor innings on tricky pitches, Williamson's T20I contributions complemented his stellar Test record, where he ranks among the all-time greats with over 8,700 runs. His decision aligns with a strategic shift, as he was omitted from the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies to focus on red-ball cricket.
"Bro #KaneWilliamson, what a calm storm you've been in T20Is! Always admired the way you led with composure and batted with grace. Wishing you happiness and success in every innings beyond this format!" Dhawan posted, capturing Williamson's unflappable demeanour that earned him fans worldwide. The duo's IPL camaraderie at SRH in 2015 and 2018 fostered a bond, with Dhawan often crediting Williamson's mentorship during high-stakes chases.
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In a statement, Williamson expressed gratitude: "It's something that I've loved being a part of for a long period of time... It's the right time for myself and the team." He emphasised providing clarity ahead of the T20 World Cup, praising the depth of emerging talent. Williamson will now prioritise the three-Test series against the West Indies in December, continuing his ODI commitments while transitioning T20 duties to successors like Mitchell Santner. His retirement marks the end of an era for New Zealand cricket, but his influence on the format's tactical evolution endures.
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