Kane Williamson's score fastest 32 centries in just 98 test matchs | © (@Sivy_KW578 Twitter)
In a remarkable turn of events, New Zealand secured their first-ever Test series victory against South Africa after 18 attempts spanning 92 years. The historic win came with a comfortable seven-wicket triumph at Seddon Park, Hamilton. The day’s hero was the in-form Kane Williamson, whose record-breaking century played a pivotal role in chasing a target of 267.
On Day 4, starting with an overnight score of 40/1, New Zealand faced the early dismissal of Tom Latham, who scored 30 runs from 57 balls. Rachin Ravindra, in the middle, took his time, while Kane Williamson capitalized on opportunities against Dane Piedt and Tshepo Moreki. Despite a dropped catch off Ravindra’s bat, Williamson showcased his prowess by hitting a six off Shaun von Berg. At the lunch break, New Zealand stood at 107/2.
The second session began with Williamson adopting an ultra-defensive approach. However, Piedt again made an impact by dismissing Williamson for 20 runs from 72 balls. Despite the setback, Williamson reached his half-century from 113 balls, hitting boundaries before the drinks break. Will Young, starting cautiously, saw New Zealand at 173/3 by the end of the second session.
In the crucial fourth session, Williamson reached his century from 203 balls, breaking Steve Smith’s record for the fastest 32 Test centuries. He achieved this milestone in 172 innings. Young picked up the pace, and after the new ball was taken, he reached his half-century from 118 balls. The unbeaten 142-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Williamson and Young ultimately secured the victory. Williamson’s innings of 133 from 260 balls included 12 fours and two sixes, bringing him equal with Graeme Smith and Younis Khan for four Test tons in successful run chases and five Test tons in the fourth innings, respectively.
Williamson – The Chase Master
Kane Williamson’s stellar performance led New Zealand to a historic series win and saw him equaling two significant records in Test cricket. Joining former South Africa captain Graeme Smith, Williamson secured his fourth Test century in successful run chases. That also marked his fifth Test century in the fourth innings, previously achieved by former Pakistan cricketer Younis Khan.
Rourke’s Dream Debut, Bedingham’s Maiden Test Ton
In the earlier stages of the match, South Africa, led by captain Brand, won the toss and chose to bat first. Ruan de Swardt’s contribution of 64 runs helped them post 242. Debutant William ORourke made a dream start by taking four wickets. While New Zealand’s batters showed promise, Latham and Williamson fell after crossing the 40-run mark, leading to Piedt’s five-wicket haul that restricted New Zealand to 211 runs.
South Africa faced early setbacks in the second innings, but David Bedingham’s maiden Test century, supported by Keegan Petersen, helped them secure a lead surpassing 200. However, South Africa collapsed, losing six wickets for 33 runs and getting bowled out for 235. ORourke continued to impress, securing a five-wicket haul and achieving the best match figures for a New Zealand player on debut.
