NEW DELHI: In a remarkable display of skill and experience,
New Zealand
's seasoned batsman
Kane Williamson
outshone both
Virat Kohli
and legendary Australian cricketer Don Bradman in the Test hundreds list on Sunday.
Williamson demonstrated his prowess, concluding the Day 1 of the first Test unbeaten with an impressive score of 112 (259) against
South Africa
at the Bay Oval in
Mount Maunganui
.
The veteran batsman commenced the year 2024 with a stellar performance, notching up his 30th
Test century
and forming an unbroken partnership of 219 runs with
Rachin Ravindra
(118*).
This century propelled Williamson ahead of both Kohli and Bradman, who had accumulated 29 centuries each. Additionally, he equalled the tally of England's Joe Root, who also boasts 30 Test centuries.
Facing a challenging situation with New Zealand reduced to 39/2, Williamson showcased his experience, exhibiting nearly flawless batting throughout the day.
Despite encountering a couple of setbacks, he navigated through them adeptly, ending the day with an unbeaten score of 112 before the stumps were called.
Williamson's innings was not without its tense moments. On his fifth ball, Ravindra attempted a quick single, and a narrowly missed throw spared Williamson from a potential run-out, preventing the hosts from slipping to 44/3.
Ravindra also had his share of close calls, surviving an early scare when a delivery from Moreki induced an inside edge that narrowly avoided the stumps.
Despite these nervy moments, Williamson and Ravindra, blending methodical play with abundant talent, capitalised on South Africa's lack of experience and missed opportunities.
The duo, unbeaten at the end of the day, not only stabilised the innings but also propelled New Zealand into a position of complete control.
(With ANI inputs)
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