With a commanding 281-run victory over South Africa in the Test match, New Zealand’s supremacy was evident. Rachin Ravindra’s incredible double century and Kane Williamson’s century in the opening innings created a strong foundation that was sure to put the momentum in motion. South Africa’s openers fell early on Day 4, as cloudy skies presented a challenge to the batsmen. Zubayr Hamza and Raymond van Tonder, however, persevered through lunch.
Both batters left during the post-lunch session, but a great partnership between David Bedingham and Keegan Petersen helped to steady the ship. Before being dismissed after tea, Bedingham’s aggressive approach added quick runs. Mitchell Santner’s three-wicket stint and Kyle Jamieson’s four-wicket haul further dashed South Africa’s hopes. South Africa never threatened to threaten New Zealand’s bowlers, who were dominating and chasing a lofty goal of 529. Santner’s effectiveness combined with Jamieson’s genius sealed New Zealand’s decisive win.
The match’s talking points are as follows:
1. The consecutive hundreds scored by Kane Williamson
Throughout the two innings of the Test match, Kane Williamson demonstrated his batting skills. He hit 16 boundaries and a strong 118 runs from 289 deliveries in the first inning. Williamson, who is still in excellent form, scored his 31st Test century in the second innings after hitting 12 boundaries and taking 122 balls. Nevertheless, his century was short-lived as he left for 109 runs off 132 deliveries, giving way to the bowling of South African captain Neil Brand.
2. The double ton of Rachin Ravindra
In the opening innings of New Zealand’s match against South Africa on Monday, Rachin Ravindra struck his first-ever double-century to maintain his incredible form in international cricket. After posting an overnight score of 118, the all-round player stormed beyond 150 runs to take command of the morning session on Day 2. With 26 boundaries and three sixes in 366 deliveries, Ravindra scored 240 runs because of his outstanding hitting.
The losing captain, Neil Brand, South Africa, said:
Very deflating. Felt we were in the game. Outplayed by a very good NZ team. Our patience was tested on this wicket. Back to the drawing board and hope we can compete better. Disappointing to lose a wicket after a lunch break or drinks. The dressing room is hurting a lot. Massive honour picking up 6 wickets.
Winning captain Tim Southee, New Zealand, said:
On a good surface, the batters set it up and the bowlers picked up 20 wickets. Very pleasing. We had great preparation. They compete. They are a proud nation. When you come to the Mount, it does offer that little bit more later in the Test. Pleasing to see Mitch Santner coming back into the team. We got better as the Test went on. As a group we were a bit better in the second innings. We would enjoy this one. Lot of focus will shift back to the next Test.
Player of the Match, Rachin Ravindra, New Zealand, said:
Any capacity to a team victory is extremely pleasing. Happy that we got the job done. I will rate this very highly. We are all humble and just do the right things. He (Kane Williamson) has got 31 Test tons and I only have one. The beauty of this team is that as long as you are trying, you feel the belonging to the team. The coach and the management ensure that.
India
