November 28, 2024: In the first Test against England at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson played a pivotal role, helping the hosts reach 319/8 at stumps on Day 1.
Williamson, making his return to international cricket after injury, played a composed innings, narrowly missing out on his 33rd Test century, as he was dismissed for 93. His knock was crucial in steadying the Black Caps’ innings, following an early setback where Devon Conway (2) was dismissed cheaply.
Williamson formed key partnerships with Tom Latham (47), Rachin Ravindra (34), and Daryl Mitchell (19), and helped New Zealand recover to 193/3 by tea. However, after the break, England’s Gus Atkinson (2/61) got the better of Williamson with some extra bounce, and the Kiwi star fell in the 90s for the first time in more than six years.
As the day progressed, England’s Shoaib Bashir (4/69) found his rhythm, claiming the last three wickets of the day and giving England a foothold in the match. Despite the late fightback from the English bowlers, Glenn Phillips (41*) and Tim Southee (10*) were still at the crease, with New Zealand in a solid position at 319/8.
For New Zealand, this match is crucial as they still have an outside chance of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship Final, but they will need a 3-0 series sweep against England to keep that dream alive.