New Zealand’s experienced batter Kane Williamson achieved a remarkable feat in the first Test against South Africa as he surpassed cricket legends Don Bradman and Virat Kohli in the list of most Test centuries.
Williamson achieved a remarkable feat by notching up his 30th Test hundred. He crafted his way to a century with 15 boundaries off 241 deliveries.
Most Test centuries among active players
Williamson played a characteristic innings, showing again why he is the top-ranked batter in test cricket. He was balanced, composed and patient, prepared to endure in the morning, then through the afternoon when runs were scarce.
He was more forceful in the final session, reaching his century with his 13th boundary from 241 balls. It was his fourth century against South Africa and his 17th in New Zealand.
The 33-year-old batter was granted a lifeline when Edward Moore dropped a catch. Capitalizing on this second chance, Williamson reached a century, equalling Joe Root’s total and surpassing the tallies of cricket legends Don Bradman and Virat Kohli, both of whom have 29 centuries to their names.
Williamson went on to post his fifth century in his last six Tests, lifting his career average above 55 to cement his status as the ICC’s top-rated Test batsman.
In a brilliant partnership, Williamson forged an unbeaten 219-run stand with Rachin Ravindra, who notched up his maiden Test century, for the third wicket and guided New Zealand to a commanding position at 258/2 by stumps.
Despite the early dismissal of the openers by the inexperienced South African attack, the duo showcased exceptional batting prowess throughout the day.
By the close of play, Williamson stood unbeaten at 112 while Ravindra also remained unbeaten on 118, an innings laced with 13 fours and a six.
The second test takes place in Hamilton from February 13.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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