When Kane Williamson, the right‑handed NZ captain‑turned‑senior, smashed a boundary for his 26th Test ton on 28 February 2023, he also nudged past Ross Taylor to become New Zealand’s highest run‑scorer in Test cricket. The feat unfolded at Basin Reserve in Wellington during the second Test of the home series against England, a match that swung the record books in Williamson’s favour and gave fans a fresh chapter in a storied rivalry.
Record‑Breaking Test Innings at Basin Reserve
Williamson walked in to bat with New Zealand already 112/2, facing a disciplined English attack led by James Anderson. He scored 151 runs, his 26th Test century, and with the final run he eclipsed Taylor’s 7,683‑run tally. "It’s surreal," Williamson said moments after the milestone, "to know you’ve added a new line to the history of NZ cricket." The crowd at the iconic Basin Reserve, draped in black caps, erupted as the scoreboard flashed the new figure – 9,276 career Test runs, a number that will sit in the annals for decades.
Career Milestones Leading to the Record
Since debuting in 2010, Williamson has amassed 33 Test centuries and 15 ODI centuries, 48 international centuries in total – the most by any New Zealander. His highest Test score of 251 came against Sri Lanka in 2018, while his 148 against Australia in 2020 stands as his ODI best. In December 2022 he stepped down as Test captain, a move that shocked many, yet his form never faltered. Earlier that year he notched his fifth Test double‑century against Pakistan, becoming the first Kiwi to hit five double hundreds.
Shifts in Leadership and Contractual Changes
After the 2024 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, where New Zealand exited in the group stage, Williamson relinquished white‑ball captaincy in June 2024. The decision coincided with a transition to a "casual" contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC). Under this arrangement, he commits only to selected series, freeing up time for family and overseas leagues. "As your life situation changes, the balance between where you spend your time and give your attention is really, really important," he explained ahead of the 2025 ODI series against England.
Recent Performances and International Absence
In February 2025, Williamson broke a 2,060‑day ODI century drought with a dazzling 140 against England, his first hundred since June 2019. He followed that with a 200‑run knock in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, helping New Zealand reach the final, where they fell short to India. Yet, after the Champions Trophy, Williamson has been absent from the national side – missing a Test tour of Zimbabwe and home T20 series versus Australia and England – focusing instead on the English summer. He captains London Spirit in the Hundred and turns out for Middlesex County Cricket Club.
What This Means for New Zealand Cricket
The record cements Williamson’s legacy as NZ’s most prolific batsman, but it also raises questions about the team’s future without his constant presence. Coach Rob Walter has praised Williamson’s professionalism, noting that even on a casual contract, his mentorship of younger players like Finn Allen is invaluable. "It’s just ongoing communication with NZC and with Rob, and I’m grateful for that," Williamson said, underscoring the delicate balance between personal priorities and national duty.
- Record: 9,276 Test runs – overtaking Ross Taylor
- 33 Test centuries, 15 ODI centuries (48 total)
- Highest Test score: 251 vs Sri Lanka (2018)
- Casual contract with NZC effective 2024
- Recent 200 runs in 2025 ICC Champions Trophy
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Williamson’s record affect New Zealand’s batting lineup?
His milestone underscores the depth of experience in the side, giving younger batsmen a benchmark. Even on a casual contract, his mentorship can accelerate the growth of prospects like Finn Allen and Devon Conway, helping NZ maintain competitive batting depth.
What led to Williamson stepping down from white‑ball captaincy?
A combination of the 2024 T20 World Cup group‑stage exit, personal family considerations, and the desire to manage his workload prompted the decision. The casual contract offers flexibility while keeping him available for key series.
When did Williamson last score a double‑century in Tests?
His most recent double‑century came in March 2023 against Pakistan, where he posted 207 runs, marking his fifth Test double‑century – a New Zealand first.
Will Williamson return for the upcoming Zimbabwe Test series?
As of October 2025, NZC has not confirmed his participation. His casual agreement suggests he may opt out to focus on domestic commitments in England, though a late‑season recall remains possible.
How does his performance in the Hundred compare to international cricket?
In the 2025 Hundred season, Williamson averaged 48.6 with a strike‑rate of 98, showing that his classic technique translates well to the fast‑paced format, reinforcing his value beyond the traditional Test arena.
