Did Dhawan Truly Call Williamson a 'Calm Storm' in T20Is as He Retires?
Synopsis
Kane Williamson's retirement from T20I cricket has left a significant mark on the format. As Shikhar Dhawan hails him as a 'calm storm,' we explore Williamson's contributions and legacy in T20 cricket, alongside his future in Test and ODI formats. What does this mean for the New Zealand cricket team moving forward?
Key Takeaways
Kane Williamson retires from T20I cricket.
He scored over 2500 runs and captained New Zealand on 75 occasions.
Regarded as a 'calm storm' for his composure and elegance.
Williamson will focus on Test and ODI formats.
Dhawan's heartfelt tribute highlights Williamson's impact.
New Delhi, Nov 2 (NationPress) Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan commended New Zealand legend Kane Williamson, who recently declared his retirement from T20I cricket, as a 'calm storm' in this rapid format due to his elegant and steady batting style.
Williamson steps down effective immediately after participating in 93 T20I matches for New Zealand, accumulating over 2500 runs in this format. He will remain active in Test and ODI formats.
Dhawan, who played alongside Williamson at the IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad, expressed on X, "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!"
The 35-year-old batsman, who debuted in T20I cricket in 2011, captained New Zealand 75 times, leading them to two ICC T20 World Cup semi-finals (2016 & 2022) and one final (2021). He retires as New Zealand’s second-highest T20I run-scorer, with 2575 runs at an average of 33, including 18 fifties and a top score of 95.
“It’s something that I’ve loved being a part of for a long period of time and I’m so grateful for the memories and experiences. It’s the right time for myself and the team. It gives the team clarity for the series moving forward and ahead of their next major focus which is the T20 World Cup. There’s so much T20 talent there and the next period will be important to get cricket into these guys and get them ready for the World Cup,” Williamson stated on Sunday.
Williamson, who concluded his 93-game T20I career months prior to the upcoming T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka in February, was notably absent from the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against the West Indies. He will focus on the three-Test series scheduled for December.
Point of View
We recognize the profound impact of Kane Williamson on T20 cricket. His retirement marks not just a personal milestone but a pivotal moment for New Zealand's cricketing future. With emerging talents ready to step up, this transition period is crucial. We stand by the nation and its cricketing journey.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Kane Williamson retire from T20I cricket?
Kane Williamson announced his retirement from T20I cricket on November 2, 2023.
How many runs did Williamson score in T20Is?
Williamson scored over 2500 runs in T20I cricket.
What is Williamson's highest score in T20Is?
His highest score in T20I cricket is 95.
Will Williamson continue to play other formats?
Yes, he will continue to participate in Test and ODI cricket.
What has Dhawan said about Williamson's retirement?
Shikhar Dhawan praised Williamson as a 'calm storm' and wished him happiness in his future endeavors.
