Kane Williamson retires from international cricket, first of the Fab Four
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 1:13 PM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket, becoming the first member of the Fab Four to do so. This cohort, which also includes Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, and Joe Root, has dominated discussions around modern Test batting. Williamson's career is marked by match-winning performances and a steady presence, contributing significantly to New Zealand cricket despite facing challenges inherent to being part of a smaller cricketing nation. His departure opens conversations about his legacy and standing among the other greats of his era.
- •Kane Williamson announces retirement on June 16, 2026.
- •Williamson became the first of the Fab Four to retire.
- •He averaged 81.1 in Test matches won by New Zealand.
- •Williamson's contributions included 22 centuries in wins.
- •His career spanned significant achievements despite New Zealand's size.
- 1:13 PMYahoo Sports — First to Leave, Never Far Behind: Kane Williamson and the Fab Four
"For years, the Fab Four debate searched endlessly for a winner. As Kane Williamson becomes the first member of the quartet to retire, this is not a ranking but a reflection. Amid Kohli's intensity, Smith's absurdity and Root's volume, Williamson quietly went about his business. From match-winning runs and captaincy highs to carrying the heaviest individual load, the New Zealander built a career defined by greatness without the noise.
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