New Zealand's Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket with immediate effect.

Williamson, the former Black Caps captain, has called time on his international career midway through New Zealand's Test series against England.

New Zealand lost the first Test at Lord's by 115 runs.

Williamson scored 0 and 18 in that defeat, and the 35-year-old has now elected to step back.

"I've thought about it for a while, but over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time," Williamson said in a NZC statement.

"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. Continuing with anything less wouldn't be right and I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms.

An exceptional career, by the numbers. pic.twitter.com/52SZsQhY8q

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) June 12, 2026

"I leave feeling optimistic about where this group is heading. There's a huge amount of talent, and a real desire to do something special with this New Zealand team. It's a team I love, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of it for so long. It will continue to be dear to my heart."

Williamson is New Zealand's record run scorer in Tests.

He has plundered 9,515 runs at an average of 54.06. His high score was 251.

Williamson has played 110 Tests, and captained New Zealand in 40 of those. He made 175 ODI appearances and played 93 T20Is.

New Zealand won the World Test Championship title under his leadership, while he also led them to the final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and 2021 T20 World Cup.