New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner has been named the full-time white-ball captain, succeeding Kane Williamson, who stepped down following New Zealand’s early exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. Santner, who has occasionally led the team since 2020 in the absence of senior players, now takes on the role permanently.
As a part-time skipper, Santner has a solid track record. Now an established senior player across formats, he has led New Zealand in 24 T20Is and four ODIs, securing 14 wins. With major tournaments like the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2026 T20 World Cup approaching, Santner faces a significant challenge.
He recently captained the team during the white-ball leg of the Sri Lanka tour and will begin his full-time captaincy tenure against the same team, this time in home conditions.
“It’s obviously a huge honour and a privilege to be asked. When you’re a young kid the dream was always to play for New Zealand but to have the opportunity to officially lead my country in two formats is special.”
”It’s a new challenge and I’m excited to get stuck into the important period of white ball cricket that we have ahead of us,” Santner said in a statement (via nzc.nz)
“There’s a shift in leadership”- Mitchell Santner prepared for leadership challenge
Several New Zealand players, including Kane Williamson, are nearing the end of their careers, while others have limited availability after declining central contracts. These challenges await Santner in his early days as full-time captain.
“There’s obviously a little bit of a changing of the guard with some of our experienced players at the back end of their careers. I think that’s exciting for the remainder of the group and the young players to now take on the challenge and drive this team forward to further success,” Santner added
New Zealand’s home white-ball series against Sri Lanka is set to start on December 28.
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