Kane Williamson, the world's top-ranked Test batter, kicked off his 2024 Test campaign with an impressive century against South Africa at Mount Maunganui. On the opening day of the first Test, the 33-year-old Kiwi superstar batter Williamson achieved his 30th Test century in 241 balls, showcasing his dominance over South Africa's youthful pace brigade amidst the supportive chants from the home crowd.
With this landmark hundred, Williamson surpasses cricket legends Don Bradman and Virat Kohli in the number of Test centuries, securing his place among the game's all-time greats. The century, marked by Williamson's customary elegance and tactical acumen, came against Tshepo Moreki. Williamson skillfully dispatched a short ball to the boundary through mid-wicket, demonstrating his exceptional batting prowess.
Williamson juggernaut kicks-off from where it had left
This achievement not only highlights Williamson's mastery with the bat but also underscores his significant contributions to New Zealand cricket. Notably, this century marks his 17th on home turf, reinforcing his reputation for delivering outstanding performances in familiar conditions. Williamson's record-breaking journey includes becoming the New Zealander with the most Test and double centuries, achieving his fifth double ton in December 2022 during a match against Pakistan. This feat established him as the first from his country to reach five double centuries in the Test format.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning 96 Tests, Williamson had amassed 29 centuries before this game, and this latest century elevates his total to 30. His remarkable average of 55.22 ranks him among the elite, placing him fourth among batters with 29 or more Test centuries. Only cricket legends like Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara, and Steve Smith boast higher averages, with Don Bradman leading the prestigious list.
Williamson's continuous ascent in Test cricket, highlighted by his latest century, cements his legacy as one of the finest batsmen in the sport's history, admired for his consistency, technical skill, and strategic mindset on the international stage.
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