February 4, 2024

Williamson’s 30th Test Century Eclipses Kohli and Bradman as Ravindra Sets New Zealand Record

In a stunning display of skill and finesse, Kane Williamson secured his 30th Test century in Mount Maunganui against South Africa, surpassing the legendary Don Bradman and contemporary icon Virat Kohli in the all-time list of hundreds. This milestone achievement was marked by a 241-ball masterclass, reaffirming Williamson’s status as one of the world’s finest Test batters.

Alongside the skipper’s triumph, Rachin Ravindra carved his place in New Zealand cricket history with an impressive double ton, the highest maiden men’s Test hundred by a Kiwi player. The duo’s remarkable partnership of 219 runs propelled the Black Caps to a commanding 258-2 at stumps on day one, setting the stage for an exhilarating Test match against a spirited South African side.

In a historic start to 2024, Kane Williamson achieved a momentous milestone by scoring his 30th Test century against South Africa in Mount Maunganui. This remarkable feat propelled him past Virat Kohli and the legendary Don Bradman in the all-time list of Test hundreds.

Adding to the Black Caps’ celebrations, Rachin Ravindra made history by amassing 240 runs across the first two days of play, claiming the highest maiden men’s Test hundred by a New Zealander. The pair’s exceptional partnership of 219 runs for the third wicket on day one steered the hosts to a commanding position at 258/2 by stumps. On day two, they added 13 more runs before Williamson’s dismissal for 118. Undeterred, Ravindra continued his charge, surpassing Matthew Sinclair’s 214 score against the West Indies in 1999 to set a new record for the highest maiden century by a Kiwi player.

Most Test Centuries Among Active Players: A Trio of Modern Greats

In a quintessential Kane Williamson innings marked by resilience and finesse, the star batsman meticulously crafted his way to a century, punctuated by 15 beautifully timed boundaries across 241 deliveries. By the close of play, Williamson stood firm at the crease, proudly unbeaten at 112.

Although Williamson was granted an early lifeline when Edward Moore dropped a catch, the top-ranked Test batter capitalized on this stroke of fortune, ultimately equaling Joe Root’s total and surpassing the records of legends Don Bradman and Virat Kohli, both of whom boast 29 centuries to their names. Fresh off his recent triumph as the ICC Emerging Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2023, Rachin Ravindra reflected on his day one performance as “surreal,” expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share the field with such an esteemed company.

“After I got to my century, Kane come up to me and said, ‘mate, you’re unbelievable’,” Ravindra said post the first day’s play.

“To be receiving that kind of special praise from one of the best batters in the world. It’s the coolest thing I’ve been a part of.”

“Playing alongside Kane is always very special,” the left-handed Ravindra said.

“Sharing the crease with someone I idolise so much, life has come full circle for me. It’s a real ‘pinch-me’ moment.”

Debutant Chamika Gunasekara Substituted After Suffering a Head Injury

Sri Lankan Test debutant Chamika Gunasekara experienced an unfortunate setback in the match against Afghanistan in Colombo. After suffering a blow to the head from a Naveed Zadran bouncer, Chamika Gunasekara was forced to retire hurt and was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the game. As a result, Kasun Rajitha was approved as a concussion substitute; he stepped in to replace Gunasekara and joined the Sri Lankan bowling attack, strengthening their lineup in the face of adversity.

This incident underscores the importance of player safety in cricket, particularly regarding head injuries. With concussion protocols in place to protect players, fans, and teammates alike, Gunasekara hopes for a speedy recovery as he looks to make his mark on the international stage.

Sri Lankan Test debutant Chamika Gunasekara faced an unfortunate incident during the third day of the only Test match against Afghanistan in Colombo. A bouncer from Afghanistan’s Naveed Zadran struck Gunasekara on the head, leading to immediate medical attention and a concussion check. Initially, the debutant passed the assessment and continued playing. However, after several overs, he was seen struggling and holding his head, which led to his substitution.

Kasun Rajitha came in as a concussion substitute for Gunasekara, who was taken to the hospital for further evaluation. The incident happened when Gunasekara was batting on 16, and as he tried to duck underneath the bouncer, the low bounce resulted in a direct hit on his helmet. This unfortunate event highlights the importance of player safety and the need for strict concussion protocols in cricket.

Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s pacer Mohammad Saleem also suffered an injury during the game. Saleem sustained a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on the second day of the Test match and was subsequently ruled out of the ongoing game in Colombo.

The Test match saw Sri Lanka taking a significant first-innings lead, with centuries from Angelo Mathews and Dinesh Chandimal. Afghanistan made a strong comeback on the third day, with notable performances from Ibrahim Zadran, Noor Ali Zadran, and Rahmat Shah.

Help lift up your favorite player! Head to our site to show them you’re rooting for them.

Top Cricket News | Cricket World Cup | Cricket World Cup News | Bangladesh Premier League | Big Bash League | India Priemier League | Pakistan Super League | T20 Blast