New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed on Thursday that top-order batsman Kane Williamson will take over the captaincy in all three formats of the game following the retirement of Brendon McCullum.
The 25-year-old had been expected to succeed McCullum having already led the side in ODIs when the former captain was rested or injured, and at the recent World T20 tournament in India, where the Kiwis reached the semi-finals.
He will become New Zealand’s 29th test captain when Mike Hesson’s side tour Zimbabwe and South Africa in July-August.
Kane has been a leader within the team for a long time now and already shown himself to be an extremely capable captain. He’s respected by his peers and the wider cricket community for his professional approach both on and off the field, and has a superb cricket brain.David White, NZC Chief Executive
McCullum retired in February following the Test series against Australia after four years in charge, during which time the team made their first World Cup final and became more competitive in the longest form of the game.
It’s certainly an honour. I’ve really enjoyed my time spent as captain and believe this team can achieve a lot. I’m lucky to have a number of experienced players around me for support and will certainly look to utilise this.Kane Williamson