Following New Zealand's unexpected exit from the T20 World Cup, captain Kane Williamson has expressed uncertainty about his future in T20Is and his potential participation in the 2026 edition of the tournament. Williamson, renowned for his pivotal role as New Zealand's batting mainstay across formats, has led the BlackCaps in numerous ICC tournaments, including three finals.
Reflecting on their campaign, Williamson acknowledged the disappointment of failing to progress to the semifinals for the first time in a decade. Despite ending their tournament with a comprehensive seven-wicket victory over Papua New Guinea, earlier losses to Afghanistan and West Indies determined their early exit in the group stage.
Williamson pointed out the challenges faced in adapting to the Caribbean conditions, which posed significant hurdles for batsmen throughout the tournament. Despite the setbacks, he stressed the importance of these experiences for the team's growth, particularly in learning to navigate unfamiliar playing conditions.
Looking ahead, Williamson indicated that New Zealand will shift their focus to red-ball cricket in the upcoming year. He mentioned that decisions regarding his future in T20Is and the team's strategy for future ICC events are yet to be finalised. The captain's non-committal stance regarding his participation in the 2026 T20 World Cup leaves room for speculation about potential changes in leadership or adjustments within the New Zealand cricket setup.