Kane Williamson handed New Zealand captaincy

Williamson, ranked by the ICC as the third best batsman in the world, has already led the one-day international and Twenty20 sides following the retirement of Brendon McCullum, but his position now becomes official while also being named the Test captain.

The 25-year-old, who will return to Yorkshire for a third year in June, is proud to become the 49th five-day captain of his country, having already skippered 36 short-format games.

He said: "It's certainly an honour. I've really enjoyed my time spent as captain and believe this team can achieve a lot.

"I'm lucky to have a number of experienced players around me for support and will certainly look to utilise this. We're all striving for the same thing and that's to represent New Zealand with pride and win cricket games.

"I've certainly learnt a lot from Brendon, as has everyone who has played with him.

"The culture that he and (coach) Mike (Hesson) have cultivated has been a huge part of this team's success in recent times. We not only have good players, but good people too and that certainly makes any captain's job easier."

New Zealand Cricket CEO David White added: "Kane has been a leader within the team for a long time now and already shown himself to be an extremely capable captain.

"He's respected by his peers and the wider cricket community for his professional approach both on and off the field, and has a superb cricket brain.

"His drive to see the team succeed and his passion for the game are what you look for in a leader. He's ready for the role and will only continue to grow."

Williamson will have to wait until later this summer until his side are next in action as they tour Zimbabwe and South Africa.