HAMILTON: New Zealand side won a test series against South Africa for the first time with Kane Williamson striking an unbeaten century Friday to steer them to a seven-wicket win in the second Test.
Williamson’s 133 not out added to the hosts’ 269-3 in Hamilton, reaching their fourth-innings target of 267 late on 4th day to complete a historic 2-0 series victory.
Kane Williamson’s brilliant ton headlines New Zealand’s seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the second Test 👏
The hosts take the series 2-0.#WTC25 | #NZvSA 📝: https://t.co/DanPmHfrsf pic.twitter.com/u8Ms2w3nl6
— ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2024
New Zealand secured their second consecutive Test victory over the Proteas, extending their lead at the summit of the World Test Championship standings with an impressive 2-0 series sweep, boasting a commanding 75 percent win-loss ratio.
Despite South Africa’s improved performance compared to the initial Test at Mount Maunganui, their defeat has relegated them to eighth place in the World Test Championship rankings, trailing behind England with a win-loss percentage of 25.
The stage is now set for a pivotal showdown at the top of the standings as the Kiwis prepare to take on Australia later this month. New Zealand will pin their hopes on Williamson’s stellar form against the Australians. The top-ranked Test batsman in the world has notched an impressive seven centuries in his last seven Test outings, including a decisive innings in the recent match against South Africa that ensured his team’s dominance despite persistent pressure from the Proteas’ bowling attack.
Another Kane Williamson masterclass as the world's top-ranked Test batter scores his 32nd Test century for New Zealand 💥#NZvSA|#WTC25 📝 https://t.co/vK2dgiRKh6 pic.twitter.com/8GA7kyQ70P
— ICC (@ICC) February 16, 2024
During the morning session, Williamson found valuable assistance from Rachin Ravindra (20), while the reliable Will Young (60*) partnered with the former Kiwi captain to establish an unbroken 152-run alliance, steering the run chase to victory. Spinner Dane Piedt (3/93) emerged as the sole South African bowler to claim wickets, underscoring Williamson’s crucial experience as New Zealand comfortably sealed the win.
