In the home Test series against South Africa, Kane Williamson continued his impressive form by smashing a potentially match-winning century on Day 4 of the second Test. Taking charge of New Zealand’s chase of 267 runs on a challenging pitch at Seddon Park in Hamilton, His exceptional performance also propelled him to the status of the fastest player to reach 32 Test hundreds, surpassing the record previously held by Steve Smith.
Williamson single-handedly shifted the momentum in favour of the home side. Despite the visiting team’s first-innings lead and their threat of securing an unexpected victory, Williamson’s stellar performance restored hope for New Zealand.
Reaching his hundred in 203 balls during the final session on Day 2 of the second Test, Williamson displayed remarkable composure and control, gradually dismantling South Africa’s aspirations. Surpassing the 30-run mark, none of the other New Zealand batters significantly contributed as victory loomed near for the hosts.
This marked Williamson’s third century in the last four innings, posing a significant challenge to South Africa throughout the series. Beginning with scores of 118 and 109 in the first Test, Williamson became only the fifth New Zealand player to achieve twin hundreds in a Test match.
Despite being dismissed for a gritty 43 in the first innings by off-spinner Dane Piedt, Williamson’s resilience shone through in the final innings, earning him well-deserved acclaim from the Seddon Park crowd.
Players to score fastest to 32 Test Hundreds:
- Kane Williamson – 172 innings
- Steve Smith – 174 innings
- Ricky Ponting – 176 innings
- Sachin Tendulkar – 179 innings
- Younis Khan – 183 innings
