New Zealand confirm Williamson as skipper

Friday, 29 April 2016 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Reuters: New Zealand Cricket 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 one-day internationals when the former captain was rested or injured, and at the recent World Twenty20 tournament in India.

He will become New Zealand’s 29th test captain when Mike Hesson’s side tour Zimbabwe and South Africa in July-August.

“It’s certainly an honour,” said Williamson. “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.”

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.

Williamson, who made his international debut in 2010, had filled in for McCullum as recently as limited overs series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan earlier this year before the former wicketkeeper resumed the job during Australia’s tour of New Zealand in February.

“I’ve certainly learnt a lot from Brendon, as has everyone who has played with him,” added Williamson, who was named in February as the 2015 New Zealand Sportsman of the Year.

“The culture that he and Mike have cultivated has been a huge part of this teams success in recent times. We not only have good players, but good people too and that certainly makes any captain’s job easier.”