November 30, 2024: Kane Williamson made history on Tuesday by becoming the first New Zealand cricketer to score 9,000 Test runs, a remarkable achievement in his illustrious career. The milestone came during the first Test against England in Christchurch, where Williamson made a solid contribution with the bat after returning from injury.
In the second innings of the match, the 34-year-old scored a valuable 61 runs from 86 balls before being dismissed by Chris Woakes in the 36th over. Earlier in the game, Williamson had played a gritty knock of 93 runs from 197 balls in New Zealand’s first innings, showing his trademark resilience and composure. His innings helped anchor the team, as New Zealand posted a total of 348 runs, with support from all-rounder Phillips, who added a quick-fire 58 from 87 balls.
In the first innings, England, after winning the toss and electing to field, was led by Harry Brook’s outstanding 171-run knock, which came off 197 balls. Brook’s knock was pivotal in England’s strong reply, with Ben Stokes also chipping in with a steady 80 runs from 146 balls. England eventually posted 499 runs, aided by a solid bowling performance from Brydon Carse (4/64) and Shoaib Bashir (4/69).
On the Kiwi side, the bowling attack was spearheaded by Nathan Smith (3/141) and Matt Henry (4/84), who kept New Zealand in the contest by dismissing England’s top order. By the end of Day 3, New Zealand had managed to take a slender four-run lead, thanks to valuable knocks from Williamson (61) and Daryl Mitchell (31*). The hosts finished at 155/6, with Mitchell and Nathan Smith unbeaten at the crease as they continued to fight hard against England’s bowling attack.
Brydon Carse and Chris Woakes were the standout bowlers for England, keeping the pressure on the Kiwis and making crucial breakthroughs. With Day 3 ending on a tense note, the Test match is finely poised, with both teams fighting hard for an advantage.
Kane Williamson’s 9,000 Test runs are a testament to his incredible consistency and technique, and he remains one of the most respected batsmen in the game. His achievement will no doubt inspire future generations of New Zealand cricketers as they continue to look up to his example on and off the field.
