Pakistan top-order batter Babar Azam has shared his reaction to New Zealand’s legendary batter Kane Williamson’s retirement from international cricket.
Earlier today, Williamson called time on his international cricketing career ahead of the second Test at The Oval against New Zealand.
In a statement from New Zealand Cricket, the stalwart confirmed his retirement and revealed the reason for calling time on his glittering career.
“I’ve thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it’s become clear now is the right time,” he said.
“I’ve always felt a strong drive and hunger for international cricket, and I take pride in knowing I’ve given it my all in every match I’ve played for New Zealand,” he added.
“Continuing with anything less wouldn’t be right, and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms,” the statement read.
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Babar took to the social media platform X to acknowledge Williamson’s impact on global cricket.
Taking to the social media platform ‘X’, Babar reflected on the mutual respect between the two players and praised Williamson’s consistency, sportsmanship, and leadership that left a lasting impact on world cricket.
“Kane Williamson it was an honour to share the field with you. Every contest taught me something new. You leave the game better than you found it. Thank you for the standard you set champ! Happy retirement,” Babar wrote.
Williamson made his debut for New Zealand in 2010 against India at Ahmedabad. He finished as the BlackCaps highest run scorer, amassing 19,346, including 48 centuries and six double-centuries.
Widely regarded for his leadership style on the field, Kane finished his Test career at 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06, including 33 centuries.
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His leadership style was much admired, and he captained the side in all three formats during a golden period from 2016 to 2024.
During that time, New Zealand reached two World Cup finals and three semi-finals, and won the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
He was named as the ICC Cricketer of 2015 and Test player of the year in 2019, while also winning the domestic Sir Richard Hadlee Medal on a record four occasions.
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