Dhaka, June 12 -- scorer Kane Williamson has retired from international cricket with immediate effect, cutting short his participation in the ongoing three-Test series in England.

The 35-year-old batsman made the decision following New Zealand's defeat in the opening Test at Lord's, opting out of the remaining fixtures at The Oval and Trent Bridge.

Williamson had already relinquished his central contract in June 2024 to balance franchise commitments, having previously retired from T20Is last November.

"Over the last few days it's become clear now is the right time," Williamson said in a New Zealand Cricket (NZC) statement. "I feel fortunate to step away on my own terms."

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