New Zealand secured a commanding seven-wicket victory over South Africa in the Hamilton Test, thanks to stellar performances by Kane Williamson and Will Young.
Williamson led the charge with an unbeaten 133 runs, comprising 12 boundaries and two sixes, while Young provided solid support with his undefeated 60 runs, including eight fours. South Africa’s Dane Piedt stood out among the bowlers, claiming all three wickets of the New Zealand team, conceding 93 runs in his spell of 32 overs.
Starting Day 4 at 40/1, New Zealand needed 227 runs to win. Tom Latham (21*) and Williamson resumed their innings, but Latham fell to Piedt after adding 30 runs to the overnight score. Rachin Ravindra joined Williamson, contributing a valuable 20 runs before being dismissed by Piedt. Subsequently, Will Young partnered with Williamson, guiding the team with a solid stand.
Williamson reached his fifty, and the duo notched up a crucial 50-run partnership. At tea, New Zealand was at 173/3, with Williamson nearing his century at 92* and Young at 11*. In a spectacular display, Williamson completed his century, leading the charge towards victory. Young also shone, completing his half-century as they formed a formidable 100-run partnership.
With Young’s boundary, New Zealand sealed the win, reaching the target comfortably. The victory was a testament to the team’s resilience and determination throughout the match.
Brief Score: New Zealand 211 & 269/3 in 94.2 overs (Kane Williamson 133*, Will Young 60*, Dane Piedt 3/93) vs South Africa 242 & 235 in 69.5 overs (David Bedingham 110, Keegan Peterson 43, William ORourke 5/34).
