World No.1 Test batter Kane Williamson began his 2024 Test season on a high, hitting his 30th Test hundred against South Africa in Mount Maunganui. As the crowd chanted his name, the 33-year-old reached the milestone in 241 balls, dominating the young South African bowling attack on Day 1 of the first Test.
Williamson has gone past Australia legend Don Bradman and contemporary great Virat Kohli in the all-time list of hundreds with his 30th Test century. This milestone was achieved with a display of skill and finesse that is characteristic of Williamson’s play. Facing Tshepo Moreki, he expertly handled a short delivery, pulling it past mid-wicket to reach his hundred, a testament to his status as one of the finest batsmen in the world.
This particular century, his 17th on home soil, further cements Williamson’s reputation for consistent brilliance in the Test arena. His journey to this point has been marked by numerous records and accolades. Williamson holds the record for the most Test centuries and double centuries by a New Zealander, having scored his fifth double century in December 2022 against Pakistan. This feat also made him the first New Zealand batter to hit five double centuries in Test cricket.
Williamson’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. He has played 96 Tests, scoring 29 centuries before this latest achievement brought his tally to 30. His average of 55.22 places him fourth among the 18 batters who have scored 29 or more Test centuries, trailing only behind cricketing giants like Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara, and Steve Smith, with the incomparable Don Bradman leading the list.
Nicknamed “Steady the Ship,” Williamson’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen have not only earned him runs but also the respect and admiration of fans and peers alike. His leadership as captain of the New Zealand team in ODIs and T20Is reflects his all-around contribution to the sport. Despite his prowess in the longer format, he is yet to score a century in T20Is, with his highest score being 95 against India in January 2020.
