Majestic Williamson ton crushes South Africa’s hopes

Kane Williamson’s magnificent 32nd Test century propelled New Zealand to a historic series victory against South Africa. New Zealand won its first Test series against South Africa in 92 years, chasing down 267 on the fourth day in Hamilton.

The hosts started the day needing 227 to win. South Africa, despite having an inexperienced group, fought valiantly to keep the game alive and even entertained the possibility of a shock victory. Dane Piedt withdrew Tom Latham early in the day’s play, enhancing those chances. However, Rachin Ravindra and Williamson stayed firm for a limited while, ensuring that New Zealand did not fall under duress.

Interestingly, Williamson took the lead in the collaboration ahead of Ravindra. He lofted Piedt over mid-on for a six and blasted one through backward point for a boundary off the following over as the runs continued to come. South Africa remained hopeful, despite the fluctuating bounce on the surface causing issues every now and again. Piedt ultimately struck again, and he was rewarded for his patience. Ravindra, who had placed himself into a shell, chipped one in a mild way to short cover, as Latham had earlier in the day.

South Africa needed one more wicket to solidify their position and put the hosts under strain. However, Williamson and Will Young denied the visitors a chance to bat in the lower middle order. Williamson once again dominated the stand, hitting three boundaries in eight deliveries at one stage. Young, who was willing to play second fiddle, was called out once for being caught behind, but the batter was able to overturn the ruling.

Williamson, on the other end, continued to deal in boundaries and entered the tea break eight short of a ton. South Africa needed to inflict a collapse similar to the one they experienced in their second innings. Unfortunately for the tourists, it did not happen as New Zealand continued to march forward. Williamson completed his century in due order and took a back seat. Young eventually opened up with victory in sight, going on a boundary-hitting binge that erased the visitors’ slender hopes as he helped himself to an undefeated half-century.