Kane Williamson, the soft-spoken craftsman who led New Zealand to the inaugural World Test Championship triumph, has issued a serious reminder to the sport’s global guardians. Speaking at the CEAT Cricket Awards in Mumbai on Tuesday, he cautioned against allowing Test cricket to shrink into a private duel among India, Australia, and England. Williamson voiced his concern saying, “If only three teams are playing the format, it will struggle to survive. While we enjoy watching those series, they don’t fully support Test cricket’s growth." He noted, "He underlined that the purest form of cricket faces existential stress, particularly in nations where financial returns from the red-ball game are limited. “It’s a major challenge, with numerous conversations ongoing to find solutions if sustaining the format is the goal. Meanwhile, the game is under strain in many countries." Williamson emphasized collective responsibility. He added, “The Test format needs greater importance placed on it by all playing nations, along with additional resources to support its growth." Read also: Ex-KKR player accuses Gautam Gambhir of pushing Rohit and Kohli into retirement “Life Is Like That” — Williamson on NZ’s Unique Casual Contract The former captain also explained why he now operates under a “casual contract” with New Zealand Cricket, a rare model designed around balance, not permanence. He said, “My life situation, like everyone’s, changes over time. With a young family, my decisions aren’t solely about cricket — they involve broader considerations." He clarified that his flexible arrangement is the product of dialogue, not detachment. “It’s not about having a fixed long-term plan but working together and addressing challenges as they arise.” Williamson concluded with his trademark composure: “Life is like that — you make decisions based on your priorities. These situations will always arise, and being part of those conversations shows you’ve been involved in the game for a significant time, which is a privilege.”